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ALGERNON SYDNEY'S CUP. 




HOUSE OF LOCKE'S BIRTH. 



ORIGINAL, LETTERS 



OF 

JT7V 



JOHN LOCKE, ALG. SIDNEY 
AND LORD SHAFTESBURY 



WITH AN ANALYTICAL SKETCH OE 

THE WRITINGS AND OPINIONS OE LOCKE 

AND OTHER METAPHYSICIANS, 



T. EORSTER, M.B. E.L.S. M.A.S. 

COKE- MEMB. OF THE ACAD. OF N. SCIENCE AT PHILADELPHIA, *c. 



THE SECOND EDITION, 



LONDON : 
PRIVATELY PRINTED. 

1847. 



1 



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3° 



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5 13 " 






PREFACE. 

TO THE SECOND EDITION. 

The publisher of this volume, having obtained permission 
from Dr. Eorster to reprint those letters of Locke, Sidney and 
Shaftesbury which that gentleman published nearly twenty years 
ago, has added several others written by the same eminent men, 
and procured from the same source, namely the MSS. collection 
of the Eorster family. It would be unbecoming in the pub- 
lisher to premise one word concerning the merits of any thing 
written by such illustrious men as John Locke, Algernon Sid- 
ney and the Earl of Shaftesbury : but he may be permitted to 
say there are two points which, particularly claim the attention 
of the reader to the following collection of letters. They are 
selected out of the correspondence of a private family, and, as 
containing the unreserved thoughts of the writers, and conse- 
quently never intended for publication, they possess the greatest 
interest for those who delight in pictures of domestic life and 
friendship. But the second point of attraction is peculiarly 
suited to invite attention : the political movements which at 
that time disturbed Europe were precisely the same as those 
vhich at the present moment are influencing its different 
courts. The all-engrossing question concerning the rights of 
the Bourbons to the crown of Spain is repeatedly alluded to and 
discussed in the following letters, and the same question has 
again, of late years, kept the courts of England and Erance in 
a ferment, and almost destroyed the good understanding which 
existed between them. It is curious to see the same causes 
arising after a hundred and fifty years, and again producing the 
same results. 

A few passages of the following letters appear to be corrupt ; 
in these cases the only thing that could be done was to follow 
the Manuscript. 

Dec. 1, 1847. 



/ 



PREFACE 

TO 

ORIGINAL LETTERS &c. PUBLISHED A.D. 1830. 

In the publication of letters written by persons long 
deceased, and to which any considerable degree of curiosity 
may be attached, the first thing necessary seems to be, to 
satisfy the public mind of their authenticity. In the present 
instance this is a very easy thing to be done, for the letters 
of Locke, of Algernon Sidney, and of the Earl of Shaftes- 
bury, published in this volume, addressed to Mr. Eurley of 
Rotterdam, came, by the death of that gentleman, into 
the possession of my grandfather, Mr. Edward Eorster, of 
Walthamstow, inEssex, among other very curious manuscripts. 
At his death, which took place on the 20th of April 1812, 
they became the property of my father, Mr. Thomas Eurley 
Eorster, of Clapton; at whose death, in October 1825, they 
came into my hands, and were made my property by an act 
of his will, dated April 1824, together with a large collection 
of the manuscript correspondence and other works of some 
celebrated writers who flourished in the seventeenth and eight- 
eenth centuries.* 

Perhaps the most curious object in the whole parcel of pa- 
pers to which I allude, is a MS. copy of Mr. Locke V Essay 
concerning Human Understanding /' written in a very neat 

* Among others are the correspondence of Toup, the Author of 
"Emendationes in Suidam," with Bishop Warburton; several very curious 



X PREFACE 

hand, in a small 12mo book, but much crossed out and. al- 
tered, and full of corrections in the author's own handwriting. 
There is a date 1685 to this book; but it is written in a very 
much blacker ink than the rest of the work, and is evidently 
inserted at a subsequent period, at a mere guess; for I 
have good reason to believe the MS. in question to be the 
original copy of the work, just as Mr. Locke first wrote 
it, and even before he ever seriously thought of sending it to 
the press*. 

Long before I determined on the publication of Locke's 
Letters, and even while the manuscript remained in my father's 
possession, it had been suggested both to him and to me 
that the publication of the whole of the papers, just as they 
were found, would be a very acceptable present to the literary 
public: but I confess I hesitated about the propriety thereof, 
considering that the letters were of a private nature, and, in- 
dependently of their not containing anything of great public 
interest, I questioned how far any man's familiar writings 
could, consistently with a strict sense of honour, be sub- 
mitted to the public; considering how frequently men of gen- 
ius and inquiry change their sentiments, and how much op- 
inions on political and religious subjects are apt to get inter- 
letters of Mr. Gough the antiquary &c. &c. &c. Many of these curios- 
ities may one day or other be confided to my friend Mr. Nichols for 
publication. 

t Should I have leisure at some subsequent period, I hope to col- 
late this curious Manuscript with the published editions of the " Essay 
on the Understanding, " and to publish some account of the variations 
in the text, in order to trace the workings of Locke's metaphysical mind 
through his various changes of sentiment or of diction ; for it seems 
to me that he altered, in a great measure, his opinions respecting both 
religion and philosophy at different parts of his life. But whatever I 
shall publish of Locke's or any other deceased author, will be done with 
this express reservation, that whatever appears of such a nature that 



PltEFAC^ XI 

woven with familiar correspondence. Mr. Edward Eorster had 
always entertained strong objections against the printing of 
letters at all, and nsed to say, that what one man believed 
or thought, could be no business of any other man's, and 
that private letters and sentiments, however ancient, ought 
not to be divulged to the public by posterity. 

He certainly carried his opinions respecting the confidential 
nature of the correspondence of celebrated men much further 
than is usual. My father, however, when he became poss- 
essed of the papers, entertained a different opinion; and both 
he and my father in law, the late Colonel Beaufoy, rather 
urged me in the year 1817, to undertake the publication of 
the best of the manuscripts of Locke, both as an entertaining 
mode of employing my own time, and likewise because it was 
thought that the public would be interested in the perusal 
of any thing new from the pen of such a renowned writer. 

Professional avocations, the going with my family abroad 
and various other circumstances, prevented me from this un- 
dertaking, and it was not till the autumn of 1825, that my 
father again invited me to his house at Walthamstow, to 
revise with him the manuscripts for the press. His lamented 
death, which took place on the night following the festival of 
SS. Simon and Jude in that year, again put a stop to the work; 
and it was not till the winter of 1828, that, ransacking an im- 
mense collection of papers which I had carelessly laid by in a lum- 
ber room after his death, I stumbled on the case con- 
taining the curious writings in question; in which case they 
seem to have bee a deposited ever since they came into the 
possession of our family. On examining the parcel, it appear- 

he, if he had lived, would have wished it kept private, shall be 
suppressed. I mention this,because I am of opinion that the unreserved 
publication of men's opinions, in posthumous works of this kind, is 
neither «£ ir nor honorable, and the practice prevails too much in our day. 



Xll PREFACE 

ed to me that the publication of an edition of the Essay con- 
cerning Understanding, from the original manuscript copy be- 
fore alluded to, would be a work both of great expense and of 
much labour, and I therefore abandoned it, from the want of 
time to superintend it. But, at the wish of several friends, I 
have selected some of the letters for publication, and have ad- 
ded to them a few of Algernon Sidney, together with the cor- 
respondence of Lord Shaftesbury, which, being addressed to 
the same Mr. Eurley,were contained in the same box. Of what 
degree of interest they are possessed the public will be the best 
judges; but for my part, and as far as my own opinion goes, 
the circumstance of their being the productions of men so well 
known and respected in the literary world, constitute their prin- 
cipal claim to notice; I have therefore printed the letters ver- 
batim. 

The subjects of Mr. Locke's letters are often of an amusing fa- 
mily nature; those of Algernon Sidney relate mostly to business; 
while Lord Shaftesbury's writings,though they relate in a great 
measure to antient affairs, mixed with domestic concerns, never- 
theless treat of events as well as of opinions, that will never 
entirely lose their interest with the generality of mankind. But, 
although the letters of all the writers, whose works are here 
recorded, relate here and there to the great struggle for 
freedom of conscience, which was then beginning to manifest 
itself in the minds of thinking men; who opposed themselves 
boldly to the tyranny of the Church of England, and corrupt 
legislators that supported it in those days of bigotry and op- 
pression; yet the advance of liberal principles has been of late 
so rapid, compared with any thing that could have been achiev- 
ed in the last century, and the establishment of the great prin- 
ciple of civil and religious liberty has been subsequently so com- 
plete, after a hard struggle on the part of liberal men of all re- 
ligious and political creeds, that the feeble efforts of Locke, 



PREFACE Xlll 

Sidney, Shaftesbury, and other writers of those days, may, to 
superficial observers, seem to be quite lost, amidst the victories 
which Charles Eox and his party in England, and 0' Connell 
and the association in Ireland, have at length obtained under 
the enlightened administration of the Duke of Wellington, over 
the minions of a narrowminded and selfish monopoly. 

I cannot help here making one curious remark, namely, 
that the freedom of conscience from all civil disabilities, so ard- 
ently desired by Locke and Sidney, has at length been brought 
about by the very party to whom those men in those 
days were opposed, namely, the Catholics; for, had it not 
been for the efforts of the liberal Catholics of Ireland, our own 
country would certainly not yet have been freed from those op- 
pressive laws by which consciences till now remained shackled. 
And this circumstance, curious enough in itself to excite 
inquiry, I hold to furnish a satisfactory guarantee, that, how- 
ever much Catholic policy may formerly have partaken of the 
persecuting spirit of the times, there is now nothing more 
to be apprehended from it, nor indeed, from the bigotry 
and oppression of any party whatever. 

* Persecution appears to have been characteristic of the times in 
which it prevailed, rather than of any particular religion ; and perhaps 
the interest which tyrannical states of old took in religion, and the han- 
dle they made of it, had a greater share than any thing else in conver- 
ting the mild and selfdenying spirit of Christianity into a source of 
pride, oppression, and cupidity. Persecution is as old as the world's history 
reaches: with respect to Christianity, it began with the Roman Empe- 
rors, and has prevailed more or less ever since. The pretended Reform- 
ers of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, persecuted with as much 
fury, as those did against whom they directed their shafts, and the mu- 
tual accusations of heresy preferred by one party against the other, 
rendered the religious world before and at the time of Locke a complete 
Babel, as he has expressed himself in more instances than one. The mem- 
bers of the Church of England were guilty, at the period of Locke's expul- 



XIV PEEFACE 

If we examine the spirit of the present times, and the actu- 
al state of religions and civil liberty in England, we shall find 
it to be superior to any thing that has existed since the com- 
mencement of the Eeformation. Tor, though the same differ- 
ences of opinion prevail now that prevailed formerly, yet religi- 
ons are now all placed on the same footing; and, as the sword 
can no longer support the one, nor the faggot terrify the other, 
while liberty is extended to all, the fairest chance is now offered 
for truth to prevail, since fair argument is unshackled, hypo- 
crisy disarmed, and the equality of civil rights extended to all 
parties. This state of things is in reality the upshot of the prin- 
ciples contended for by Locke, Sidney, and Shaftesbury; and for 
the establishment of which there has been a long though fre- 
quently interrupted struggle. Although I may differ essentially 
from the religious opinions of the Protestant party of that bigo- 
ted period, yet I should hope that in the principles of liberty for 
which they contended, and which would guarantee to all 
men the safe and unmolested exercise of the real or imaginary 
duties which arise out of their particular creeds, all thinking 
men were at length agreed, and will be ready to acknowledge, 
that, since the kingdom of Christ is not of this world, the pro- 

sion from Oxford, of shocking instances of persecution, and the party 
to whom Locke was most attached, namely the Quakers, suffered more 
than any other body from it, the gaols in England being full of them; 
an instructive history of which may be seen in Sewell's "History of the 
Friends." That the Catholic Church was made the instrument of perse- 
cution during many ages,cannot be doubted; but it was at a remote period 
ofhistoiy, and, though long established habit could not be at once 
broken, yet the spirit of the times gradually gave way to improvement 
in knowledge, and a restoration of Christianity to its primitive purity 
gradually supervened. The principles of St. Ignatius of Loyola gradually 
destroyed what persecuting and monopolizing spirit was left in the Ca- 
tholic Church; while the bigotry of the Protestant establishment was sub- 
dued by the efforts of the Quakers, the Philosophers, and the Liberals. 



PREFACE XV 

tection of all good subjects from the annoyance of any who may 
be inclined to molest them, should, as far as religion be con- 
cerned, constitute the limits of legislative interference. 

I shall divide the consideration of Mr. Locke into three dis- 
tinct portions: Eirst, A very short sketch of the birth, paren- 
tage, and other circumstances of the author; secondly, his reli- 
gious, philosophical,and political opinions, compared with those 
of preceding and subsequent philosophers; and, thirdly, mis- 
cellaneous anecdotes. 

§ 1. OF THE BIRTH, &C OF MR. LOCKE. 

Mr. Locke's life having been amply written in several places, 
nothing more can be necessary here, than a very short sketch 
of the principal circumstances attending it, for the amusement 
of those readers who may not be in possession of the Biogra- 
phia Britannica, and other works containing his life at greater 
length. 

John Locke was born on the festival of the Decollation of 
St. John the Baptist on the 29 thdayof August, in the year 
1632, at "Wrington, in Somersetshire, in a small country 
house, a sketch of which, copied from Mr. Kutter's "Delineations 
of Somersetshire" (a very pleasing topographical work), will be 
found at the beginning of this volume. 

He received the rudiments of his classical education at West- 
minster, and was entered in 1651 as student of Christchurch, 
Oxford. Here he made great progress, but being much fonder 
of the works of Des Cartes than of the dry scholastic studies of 
the college, he took an insurmountable aversion to the course of 
university education as it was pursued at Oxford; and it is from 
this period, that, following the course of studies into which the 
perusal of Des Cartes led him, we may date the ultimate devel- 
opement of his philosophy of the human mind, as delivered in 
an "Essay concerning Human Understanding." 



XVI PREFACE 

That Locke was expelled^from the University of Oxford by 
the Dean of his College, and by an order from the King, is a 
matter of notoriety, but the particulars of that ejection are per- 
haps less generally known: the fact was, that Locke had follow- 
ed the then Earl of Shaftesbury in his exile intojlolland, and 
so great was the animosity of party at that time towards all the 
friends of the persecuted President of the Council, that Locke 
feared to return to England, and his refusal to return to his 
College when invited, only aggravated the anger of his enemies 
at Court, and led to the erasure of his name from the list of 
students. 

On the accession of James II, Penn the Quaker, who was 
the friend of Locke, had nearly obtained from the king a par- 
don for him; but Locke, thinking his offences against the state 
to be only imaginary, refused it, and preferred his exile and 
the otium cum dignitate in retirement. Though Locke's Life has 
been amply written years ago, yet I mention these particulars 
merely to account for his long stay in Holland; as the reader will 
perceive that most of his familiar letters to Mr. Eurley, of Rot- 
terdam, were dated from Amsterdam, where he contributed to- 
wards the advancement of literature in the Low Countries. 

It was at this period that he, together with Limborch and Le 
Clerc, formed the " Litteraturische Societat von Amsterdam, " 
in the year 1686. It is said by some of his biographers that 
he finished Ins celebrated " Essay on Human Understanding" 
for the press, in the following year; but I have reason to think 
that the original MS. of that book, which I have in my pos- 
session, is a work of a much earlier period, as I have already 
said; and that the date affixed in a different ink has been done 
at random by soi'ie of his posterity. 

I shaJl now pass over, for the reason before stated, the rest 
of the particulars of Locke's Life, and of his various publications 
on lleligious Toleration, &c. and proceed to some other con- 



PREFACE. XVU 

siderations. Suffice it therefore to say, that Mr. Locke left 
Holland in 1688, and took up his residence in London, and 
eventually at Oates near Laver in Essex, in the house of Sir 
Francis Masham, where, as I find recorded in a MS. account of 
his death, he died suddenly on St. Simon and Jude's Day [May 
1.] in 1704, in the 73rd year of his age, while Lady Masham 
was reading to him. He was buried in the church of that vil- 
lage, where there is a monument with a Latin inscription erect- 
ed to his memory. 

§ 2. of me. locke's religious opinions. 
So much has already been said of Mr. Locke's religious and 
political opinions, that it w T ould seem there is little left to be said 
on that subject. Some of his biographers have affirmed posi- 
tively that he was a strict Socinian ; others have laboured to 
prove that he was a supporter of the Arian heresy ; and others 
that he was friendly to the principles of the Quakers ; while all 
agree that he was inimical both to the doctrines, ecclesiastical 
policy, and discipline of the Church of England, and was the 
avowed enemy of episcopalian polity in general. Of the latter 
fact there can be no doubt, as the whole of his religious writ- 
ings testify : but I should hesitate much, from the perusal of 
his manuscript as well as his published writings, in describing 
Locke either as a Socinian or even as an Arian. With a strong 
and natural love of liberty, and an implacable animosity to a 
bigoted ecclesiastical polity as a groundwork, he seems, like 
other philosophers who have wandered from the Catholic Church, 
the common mother of Christianity, to have been versatile and 
wavering in his opinions, and to have partaken, at different 
times of his life, of the doctrines of more than one or even two 
of her apostate children. Eor example ; his bias towards 
Arianism in early life, and which he founded on the unrestrain- 
ed exercise of the privilege of interpreting the Scriptures for 

b 



XVIII PREFACE. 

himself, was afterwards much modified by his friendship and inter, 
course with the Quakers, to whose principles, in spite of his 
good-humoured sneers and playful sarcasms, in which he 
now and then indulged, T am persuaded he was much attached. 
Neither, indeed, could it well have been otherwise ; since, 
whatever may be our difference in opinion from the Society of 
Mends in matters of religion, no one who knows the value of 
sound Christian morality, can do otherwise than admire the 
quiet domestic habits, good conduct, and well organized discip- 
line of the Quakers, who must be admitted on all hands to be, 
as a body, by far the most benevolent, if not the most learned, 
of all the heretical divisions of the Christian world. 

It appears that Locke took great pains to inform himself of 
the proofs to be derived from Scripture, on points connected 
with the leading doctrines of the Church ; and that he pursued 
the same plan in elucidating them as Milton had done before 
him ; that is to say, he adopted a similar plan of confronting 
the various texts of Scripture, and drawing conclusions found- 
ed on the balance of evidence. Thus for example, if he found 
two passages favouring the doctrine of the Trinity, and three 
supporting the Unity of the Godhead, he would at once admit, 
ceteris paribus, the latter to be the best supported of the two. 
Now it is a very remarkable fact, and oue which should be deep- 
ly impressed on the minds of all theologians, but particularly on 
those of the orthodox members of the Church, that all the chief 
dissenters from orthodoxy have proceeded on this very plan, of 
examining texts of Scripture, and yet all of them have differed 
from each other : a circumstance which points out, as strongly 
as any thing can do, to every reasonable and reflecting mind, 
the fallacy of private judgment in matters confessedly above 
human reason ; and shews the necessity for that sort of autho- 
rized exposition of Scriptural truths which emanated from the 
approved Councils of the Church, and which it is the province 



PREFACE. XIX 

of the apostolical Vicars to maintain from age to age, for th<* 
purpose of useful instruction, and for maintaining the Christian 
unity of the people at large. 

In defiance of all that liberal writers may say about the right 
of private judgement in matters of religion, the orthodox will 
always have this strong argument to throw in the teeth of the 
heterodox, namely, that those who have exercised this said right 
of private judgement on the most extended scale, have differed 
the most widely from each other ; and that too in essential 
points of doctrine. I shall just take a few examples from 
sectarian writers of the age of Locke, or thereabouts, in order 
to exhibit this discrepancy of opinion in its proper light, and 
to compare it with the disunion of heart and of mind that it 
occasioned. Locke, as has been said, using the best of his 
judgement, became a sort of mixture of the Arian and the 
Quaker ; he evidently disbelieved the Trinity, the Atonement 
(at least in the usual sense of that word), the Immaculate 
Conception, and the. divine right of ecclesiastical polity. Mil- 
ton, another expounder of Scripture after the same method, 
has also denied the scriptural authority for the Trinity, but 
has added to his creed, the novel doctrine that the keeping of 
a Sabbath Day or Sunday was not an institution of Christianity, 
nor authorized by the Testament, nor does he consider it as 
binding on Christians to keep one day in seven holy. He, 
moreover, allows of polygamy, and defends on Christian princi- 
ples various other innovations of a dangerous nature. Hence 
we infer his private judgement had a different sort of warp from 
that of Locke. 

Newton, our great astronomer, who also wrote on religious 
subjects, and made abundant use of his private judgement ill 
spiritual things, is recorded by his biographers as being a 



| See Cyclopaedia, article Newton. 



XX PREFACE. 

Unitarian, and yet believing in several of the most important 
predictions of the prophets who foretold and typified the advent 
of the Messiah. Clarke, who wrote on the Attributes, and 
was a man of considerable judgement, appears to have been a 
Trinitarian, but to have dissented, nevertheless, from some 
other important doctrines of the orthodox Church. Lord 
Shaftesbury was a Protestant, but of what particular persuasion 
does not appear. 

Lord Bacon was as far from orthodox as a man could be, 
but he likewise has concealed his particular belief, and whether 
he was a Christian or a Deist cannot now be very clearly ascer- 
tained ; as he lived in times when the expression of any opi- 
nions but those received and adopted at Court was very dan- 
gerous ; and he himself was a courtier and a sycophant, in 
spite of all his vaunted philosophy. 

These were all philosophical writers who advocated the right 
of private judgement ; and if to them we add the professed 
theological defenders of the same cause, we shall find as much 
discordancy. Calvin was a Predestinarian, a Trinitarian, and a 
believer in the Miraculous Conception, &c. Luther, an Arme- 
nian, who professed belief in consubstantiation ; Price was an 
Arian, and Priestley a Socinian. I shall not swell the catalogue, 
as almost every sectarian writter has professed something pecu- 
liar, whereby he has been distinguished, while the orthodox 
members of the Mother Church, including all tie early Mar- 
tyrs, the Saints, and Christian Bishops, and thousand of emi- 
nently learned and pious men of every profession, and living in 
every age of Christianity, have been united in opinion respec- 
ting the immaculate conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 
the Trinity, the Atonement, and in short all the ether leading 
dogmas of the Church. Such men have composed all the 
great Councils of Trent, of Nice, of Lateran, &c. ; and have 
conferred on, agreed on, and expounded doctrines which have 



PREFACE. XXI 

been admitted by nine tenths of the Christian world in every 
century since the coming of our Lord to the present day, as 
the necessary groundwork of human salvation. Hence I infer 
that the particular opinions of Mr. Locke and other philosophi- 
cal writers are of very little moment, and, when considered in 
relation to the contradictions of the contemporary writers alluded 
to above, constitute no valid argument, either in favour of 
Arianism or of any other doctrine whatever : while the colli- 
sion of contradictory opinions, which I have glanced at herein, 
is calculated only to confirm the notion entertained by all 
churchmen, Prctestant as well gs Catholic, that there must be 
some authorized exposition of Scripture, in order to keep the 
members of the Christian Church connected together in 
harmony of sentiment, and to bind them in the bond of 
peace. 

Among learned and pious men the Trinitarians are to the 
Arians and Socinians at least as three handled to one. And 
though some great philosophical writers have fallen into the 
heretical errors of Arms, Sccinus, and Beza, and more still 
have become Deists, while a few, it is to be feareel, have gone 
on even to Atheism ; it is nevertheless a consolation to the 
orthodox to reflect, that all these taken together bear no man- 
ner of proportion, that is, speaking of men born Christians, to 
those who have believed in the Trinity, aud all the other doc- 
trines usually connected therewith. 

Again, if we examine into the talents and virtues of the con- 
tending parties respectively, we shall find that the ortho- 
dox will bear away the palm. What, for example, are the 
philosophy and ethics of Locke, Clarke, Bacon, and Price, 
combined, when compared with the erudition and power of 
mind possessed by St. Austin alone ? What is the learning and 
theology of Mosheim or of Priestley compared with that of St. 
Jerom, St. Epiphanius, or St. Bernard ? AY hat are the 



XX11 PREFACE. 

humane and benevolent exertions of Uaaway, of Penn, or of 
Howard, laudable as they may have been, when compared 
with the charity of St. Ignatius of Loyola, of St. Francis 
Xavier, or of Fenelon ? 

I merely select these few facts to counteract the tendency of 
many writers, in their lives of our English philosophers, to 
depreciate old and long cherished, and I may say at least use- 
ful, opinions. Had such subjects not been broached before, I 
would never have been the first to introduce them here : but 
since it has become the fashion to publish men's opinions in 
their posthumous works, the evil arising therefrom, ought to 
be counteracted, in as much as it is possible to do it, by a just 
statement of collateral facts, and by arguments fairly deduced 
from them. 

The Arian opinions of Mr. Locke, imperfectly expressed as 
they were, have been vaunted forth as if they constituted argu- 
ments, by many persons who, although actuated by the most 
honest and best intentions to do good and promote truth, 
have in my opinion served nevertheless to lead the rising ge- 
neration into error. It is on this ground alone, that I would 
ever have consented to invade the sacred right of every indivi- 
dual to say, or to write, what he pleased, in his private corres- 
pondence with his friends, without incurring the risque of 
having his idle thoughts, and the careless expressions of the 
passing moment, overhauled and criticized by the public, and 
handed down to posterity as records of the particular manner 
in which he had participated in the numerous failings and 
errors of judgment which are the common lot of human 
nature. 

I shall here close the observations which I have to offer on 
the religious opinions of Locke, witli observing what is of 
more consequence, namely, that his excellent heart and good 
sense m ordinary matters, amply compensate for the errors of 



PREFACE. XXU1 

his pen ; and that in every record of his life we find goodna- 
ture, humility, and the love of truth, however defective the 
method he adopted for its attainment.* 

I shall now consider his metaphysical philosophy compared 
with that of others. 

OF METAPHYSICAL OPINIONS FllOM PLATO, TO LOCKE AND 
HIS FOLLOWERS. 

To treat at large of Locke's metaphysical opinions would, in 
fact, be to write a long commentary on the Essay concerning 
Human Understandings task for which I am neither prepared 
nor disposed. What I propose, therefore, to do is, merely to 
give a sketch of his leading opinions, and to compare them 
with those of others who have written on the human mind. The 
best mode of doing this is to give a sketch of the opinions of 
the metaphysical philosophers in a sort of chronological order ; 
because it may be fairly presumed that the subsequent writers 
have been assisted by the already existing discoveries and opi- 
nions of the antecedent : and because it will be found by this 
method what sort of progress Ihe philosophy of mind, as it is 
called, has made in the course of ages. 

One principal thing which I think will strike every body in 
the course of this inquiry is, that the reflecting powers of the 
mind have much sooner attained their ne plus ultra than the 
observing faculties. For, while observation and discovery have 
gone on for ages heaping up new facts and the materials of 
knowledge, the science of ethicks, and metaphysical philosophy 
have not kept pace therewith; but have, very early in histor} 7 , 
attained to the utmost limits of their power. Natural Philosophy 



* See the excellent observations cf the Abbe De la Mennais, " On the Foundation 
of Certitude," and the mode of acquiring a knowledge of the true Religion, in his 
" L'lndiftercnce,' - &€. 4 vols, Svo, Paris, 1828. 



XXIV PREFACE. 

and Natural History, in every branch, has been wonderfully 
improved even in our days : but what new fact have we learn- 
ed, what additional truth have we attained to respecting the 
nature of mind, its origin, and destiny, since the beginning of 
the Christian sera? And T cannot help being persuaded, in spite 
of all the pride and boasted achievement of modern philosophy, 
that Aristotle knew quite as much of the human mind as Locke, 
Ta'ou, or Des Car!e> : and that in this sublime sort of know- 
ledge, combined with its useful application to human affairs, 
and in its relation to futurity, St. Paul greatly outdid all of 
them, as I fink every deep-thinking man must be convinced 
who has attentively read his Epistles, particularly the fifteenth 
chapter of the first book of his epistle to the Corinthians. 
But the short and simple language used bv the Apostle, 
and the obvious avoiding of superfluous peroration and the am- 
bages of an affected philosophy, have tended to cause modern 
metaphysicians to undervalue these sublime compositions. And 
I may remark that the same observations hold good with res- 
pect to the deeply metaphysical passages that are to be found 
here and there in the writings of many of the subsequent Saints 
and Doctors of the Christian Church. Indeed I am quite sure 
that metaphysical philosophy in general, and the knowledge of 
mind in particular, bad very much retrograded in the time of 
Locke; whose excellent work seems to me to derive its utility 
from its tendency to cle; r i.way innumerable errors in opinion 
fiat had gained ground with the revival of letters, rather than 
from any thing actually new which it established. 

For the doctrine tint there is a final cause, an uncreated, 
eternal, and intelligent God, the creator of all things visible to 
us and invisible, and that man made in his image has a mind dis- 
tinct from his perishable body, and capable of existing after the 
b xly is no more, are doctrines as old as the utmost limit of history 
can reach, and arc therefore generally allowed to have been 



PEEEACE. XXV 

revealed to man by the Author of all things, and to have been con- 
firmed by and to form the basis of Christianity ; neither is it 
easy to conceive any process of reasoning by which men should 
have originally come at these truths, at least as far as they re- 
late to the future state of the soul, unless they had been reveal- 
ed (it matters not how or in what manner) by God himself. 
Modern metaphysical philosophy certainly confirms, .rather than 
refutes, these sublime doctrines ; and the most correct process 
of logical reasoning will strengthen our belief in them. But, 
as far as mere human reason goes, that is without taking into 
account the historical and the internal evidence of Christianity, I 
am convinced, after all that I have read or thought on the sub- 
ject, that the proof of these or of any great truths propounded 
to us, lies in the greater difficulty of believing the converse : by 
quickly perceiving which, the mind is carried forward directly 
to admit the proposition, in favour of which the balance is found 
to preponderate. 

For all logic is based on axioms ; and what are axioms but 
proj)ositio?is which all men consent to admit as the groundwork 
of their reasoning, because they instantly feel the absurdity of 
the converse ; at which the understanding naturally revolts ? 

To take an example, when the axiom is propounded to us, 
that nothing could originate its own existence, or in other 
w> ords create itself ; we feel at once that, if it could, do so it 
must have acted before it was in being, which is so far a 
contradiction, that we instantly find it easier to believe the ne- 
cessary alternative, and to admit, how r ever incapable our limited 
power to grasp the idea, that something must have existed from 
all eternity. This is the basis of all knowledge of final cause. 
And it being an axiom of universal consent, it demonstrates 
that the nature of the human mind is such that we shall always 
of necessity chuse the'doctrine of eternal existence rather than 
believe that effects can ever have been their own causes; and 



XXVI PREFACE. 

shall therefore be carried on to the natural belief in a supreme 
and uncreated God, as the necessary origin of all the wonderful 
chains and^-mutual interchanges of cause and effect, of which 
the universe is made up. 

I think, moreover, that it would be easy to show, to any 
mind accustomed to logic and to metaphysical reasoning, that 
the whole of the natural proof which we possess of an external 
and continuously existing universe, rests on the perpetual ope- 
ration of that act of the judgment, by which this choice, 
between the proposition and converse, is regulated. I shall 
not at present go further into these abstruse inquiries. It will 
be sufficient for my purpose to have stated what I have, and to 
observe at the same time that all axioms rest on a similar prin- 
ciple, and being therefore deeply grounded in the nature of the 
human mind, are admitted by all men, not manifestly defective 
or deranged, and are called universal or general truths, from 
being the truth, that is the troth or belief of all mankind 
collectively. I am aware that a very subtile question may arise 
respecting axioms, which would affect the great question of the 
decisive nature of universal judgment or authority, but it 
is not the place to examine inhere, and it will be discussed in 
due time. 

To return to the early metaphysicians and Christian philoso- 
phers; I may observe that, so long as men did not deviate 
much from revealed truths, metaphysical knowledge was simple 
and unembarrassed by scholastic subtilties. The truths respec- 
ting the mind and its doctrines, taught by the inspired writers, 
saints, and apostolic vicars, were confined to what were useful 
and necessary to be known, and it was not till what is called 
the revival of ietters in Europe, and the revolution in religious 
matters, that men, availing themselves of the free enquiry 
which had become the fashion of the times, began again to 
perplex themselves with inquiries beyond the scope of most 



PREFACE. XXV11 



people's minds. But enquiry having begun, it could not easily 
be stopped; and though, in the upshot, the truth of tho*se 
things which had originally been revealed became confirmed by 
the last efforts of metaphysical philosophy, .yet in the dark 
period which intervened, the most extravagant notions were 
entertained ; and the principal merit which- appears to me to 
attach to Locke and some of the metaphysicians who followed 
him, appears to be r that they swept away a vast deal of inter- 
ventional error, and prepared the way for a return to the true but 
simple philosophy of our Christian forefathers. 

It will perhaps be asked what I mean by metaphy sicks, why 
a particular sort of knowledge should have got this name, ami 
why the attainment of excellence therein should always have 
been reckoned as a criterion of a reflecting and powerful mind ? 
I shall therefore try, in limine, to account for this. Metaphy- 
sical philosophy maybe said to be the grandest of all the sciences, 
for it not only embraces the sublimest objects of human con- 
templation, but is in fact the groundwork of all the operations, 
of the understanding. Every one of the physical sciences, if 
pursued far enough, will be found to resolve itself into a meta- 
physical question ; and even mathematics, logic, and physiology 
have all metaphysicks for their basis. In other words, all phy- 
. sicks resolve themselves into that which is beyond physical re- 
search, and which is therefore called metaphysical. Eor, ety- 
mologically speaking, the word is composed of the Greek 
words meta and phusike, and implies the carrying of our enqui- 
ries beyond, that is, deeper or more profound than the physical 
sciences : which are confined to the observance of the various 
operations of nature, and to such knowledge of their particular 
laws as can be deduced from the succession and order of pheno- 
mena. A few examples will serve to illustrate my meaning : 
suppose for instance we propose to examine the nature of nu- 
merical calculation ? the doctrine of infinite series, the impos- 
sibility of getting the square root of two, or of squaring the 



XXV111 PREFACE. 

circle, will soon bring us to the boundary of physical enquiry ! 
J fin geometry and conic sections we consider the infinite divi- 
sibility of matter, or the possible relation and coincidence of 
the asymptote to the hyperbole, we shall come directly to 
questions that must show us tho boundary of our understand- 
ings, and prove that there are both objects and relations of 
objects placed much beyond the reach of human compre- 
hension, and which cannot be sounded by those imperfect 
instruments of knowledge which God has given us in our 
limited organizations. 

The boundless extension of space, and the infinite duration 
of time, past and to come> may also be stated as the most 
powerful examples of subjects beyond physical enquiry, and 
which brings us into this inevitable dilemma, that while on the 
one baud we feel that we cannot comprehend them, we feel al- 
so, on the other hand, that it is still more difficult to conceive 
that they have any boundary beyond which there should exist 
Nothing. We may carry ourselves, for example, in imagina- 
tion, millions and millions of miles beyond the milky way and 
the region (if there be such a limit) of stars, but still there will, 
as far as our conceptions go, be space : neither if we should 
imagine a period before the creation )f any material object, 
could we divest ourselves of the notion of time. And thus it 
seems that Extension and Duration are, as it were, a sort of 
elementary ideas of the understanding, which it is more diffi- 
cult to dispossess the mind of, trim it would be to conceive the 
non-existence of any definite forms of matter which we perpe- 
tually perceive to be placed in relation thereto. Even if we 
could so far abstract as to conceive the possibility of there ever 
being a universal Nonentity, the most astonishing of all ques- 
tions would then arise, namely, How there should ever have hce?i 
created Anything ? I have stated these apparently futile ques- 
tions, onlv to bring us to the perception and acknowledgement 



PREFACE. XXIX 

of two leading facts ; which I beg the reader always to keep in 
mind during the progress of all metaphysical inquiry. The 
first is, that wc can only view objects through the imperfect 
medium of our senses, and the organic apparatus of knowledge 
in the brain which is appended to them ; and, consequently, 
can only view them in their relation to ourselves, or in other 
words, as they arc manifested to the mind by the corresponding 
actions which they excite in the sensorium. The second is, 
that we can never conceive that any thing can create itself, or 
begin its own existence. Froin the acknowledgment of these 
two propositions two important conclusions may be drawn. 
The first, That the existence of an external universe, and of the 
various relations of all its parts, is an inference that the mind 
draws from the specifically modified configurations of our or- 
ganization : The second, That there must be an infinite Final 
Cause that creates and maintains both external things and our- 
selves. The consideration then of Mind, otherwise called Self 
or the individual capacity for sensation j of Life, Organization, 
or the organic and moving medium of sensation ; and of mat- 
ter, or an external Universe the object of sensation, together 
with the attributes of GOD, the final uncreated Cause of all 
sensation, constitutes the province of metaphysical inquiry. It 
is therefore distinguished from mere physical science, which is 
limited to an investigation in detail, of the Phenomena 
and mutual relations of the particular objects of sensation 
alone. 

In the course of the following sketch of metaphysicl philos- 
ophy, and of the successive opinions formed by Mr Locke and 
others thereon, I request the reader to keep in mind the dis- 
tinction that 1 have made, and not to confound the Mind itself 
or individual capacity for sensation, either with the external 
Objects themselves, or with the organic apparatus or living Sen- 
sorium, in which their images are, if I may so say, represented. 



XXX PREFACE. 

in order to be made manifest to the mind. When the word soul is 
used, it implies the continuing of the same mind, or individual 
capacity for sensation, eternally and in another state after death, 
or the solution of its relation to the organic matter of the body. 
Thus the mind, when set free from the perishable bondage of 
the flesh, is called soul. But what will be its particular state, 
whether it will be united to another and more perfect body, or 
whether its existence as a capacity for sensation shall then re- 
quire what we call a body at all, are questions beyond even the 
grasp of the most acute metaphysical philosophy, and are solu- 
ble only by God, who has, according to the doctrine of the 
Church, told us as much about it as is necessary for the prepar- 
ing of our minds for happiness hereafter by particular exercises 
prescribed by himself. Now there is nothing against reason in 
the belief that having a capacity for sensation here, we should,, 
by exerting the power God has given us in a particular way, 
according to the divine laws, acquire a capacity for existing in 
a better state hereafter;* but, as the consideration of this sub- 
ject is the province of religion alone, it will be purposely omit- 
ted as a subject of further metaphysical speculation ; and I 
shall merely observe that, independently of its being the belief 
of all the wisest and best men that ever existed, future life is in 
itself a proposition much more easy of belief than its converse; 
and therefore much less evidence than actually exists for the 
truth of Christianity would be sufficient to turn the balance of 
probabilities in its favour. 

With these preliminary observations, which I trust will 
mark out what I mean by metaphysical philosophy, I shall 
proceed to give a short sketch of its history, particularly of 

* I allude, as the reader will readily perceive, to the great Theological Virtues, the- 
Spiritual Exercises of the Christian Religion, grounded in Faith, Hope, and Charity, 
aud which when exercised in the highest degree are called the Ev angelical Councils, 
or tho more complete modes of Perfection. See an explanation of these in the "' Cat- 
holic Annual "for 13.30, sold by Keating and Brown, Prolegomena, page xlix, 



PEEFACE, \XXl 

("hat branch of it which relates to the power of the human mind ; 
from the age of Plato and Aristotle to that of Locke and Des- 
Cartes, and thence to the metaphysicians of our days. 

I am aware that I might have begun with the Divine or 
Christian philosophy, as it is called, which is still older, and 
was known to the Patriarchs and Jews, and probably laid the 
foundation for all the other systems of moral philosophy, which 
will be found to be only its fragments, or partial doctrines, 
variously dispersed among collateral nations, mixed up with 
their passions and local prejudices, and capable of being again 
resolved into their parent stock or original fountain, in propor- 
tion as they are simplified and purified from the errors of judg- 
ment and the deceptions of language with which they have got 
entangled. 

But, the Christian philosophy boasting of a higher origin 
and far more genuine source than the reasonings of men, and 
being a direct declaration of truths respecting the human mind, 
in its origin, fall, recovery, and future destinies, and coming 
from the Creator himself, it seems advisable to reserve its con- 
sideration to the last, enough having been stated respecting it 
to enable the reader to understand the references J may make 
in the course of the ensuing history. Because, after having 
pointed out the various doctrines and modes of argument 
which belong to the successive theories, I hope to be able to 
show, in the sequel, that they establish nothing beyond what 
is concluded in the comprehensive system of Christianity. The 
reason why this fact has been so much overlooked is, because 
philosophers, being used to high sounding words, and an affec- 
ted phraseology, the offspring of their own conceit, almost invo- 
luntarily discarded the most profound truths, when clothed in 
the simple garb of ordinary and unaffected language ; for they 
as little expected to find the sublime doctrines respecting the 
nature of the soul, so long the object of their research, in such 



ixxii r Hep ace, 

a quarter, as the learned Hebrews of old did to find the 
Messiah bora in the manger of a stable, unaccompanied by any 
of the anticipated ensigns of grandeur. Thus men, employing 
only their own reasoning, founded imperfect s} T stcms, which 
flourished and decayed in succession, and which had got much 
more diffusive in the time of Locke, and before he wrote, than 
they were in the time of Plato. 

Several reasons may be assigned for the decline of metaphysi- 
cal philosophy, during a period in which mechanical and 
natural philosophy went on increasing : firstly, the latter not 
only required less constant exertion of the superior faculties of 
the mind than the former, but it was at the same time more 
marketable and more flattering both to the enterprises of genius, 
and to the sordid views of cupidity. Physicks feed vanity, 
and excite further emulation; because the objects of sense, 
and of what we may call the knowing faculties, being innumer- 
able and scattered over the face of the globe, the delights con- 
sequent on discovery are endless, independent of the use they 
may be put to : while mctaphysicks are at all times based on 
a few simple and unchangeable propositions, which it requires 
the rare faculties of reflection, comparison, and the power of 
appreciating cause and effect, rightly to understand and to 
reason upon; and hence few aim at excellence therein, and 
still fewer attain to it. It is only in the flourishing conditions 
of society, when the natural wants of men can be easily satis- 
fied, and time for reflection allowed, that a few highly gifted 
individuals make a regular study of the Philosophy of Mind : 
which is of little worldly profit, which cannot be appreciated 
by the many, and cannot therefore be perverted to purposes of 
vanity, and which tends to that which none but Christians and 
really great philosophers relish or know how to value — to 
humble the pride of private judgement, prove how little, after 



PREFACE. XXX111 

all, we know of the continuous and unperceived existence of 
external tilings, and of the ultimate destination of ourselves as 
sentient identical beings, and how necessary it is to mortify 
pride and self conceit, in order rightly to understand and 
appreciate what we are told on authority respecting the most 
interesting functions and future destinies of our nature. 
These appear to me to be the causes why the philosophy of Plato 
and his followers fell into decay, while other sciences flourished. 
And the consideration of these changes also shows us why deep 
metaphysical inquiries remained for ages almost confined to 
some of the learned fathers of the Church ; because they alone 
knew the real value of such knowledge, when conducted with 
the spirit of humility, and when made subservient to pro- 
mote the great cause of human happiness ; since they tend- 
ed to shew the distinct nature of cause and effect, and to distin- 
guish mind, or the individual capacity for sensation, from matter, 
or the objects of sensation, while there was nothing contradictory 
to the hypothesis, that the mind could go on existing and per- 
ceiving yet other objects of sensation after the living prin- 
ciple or medium of sensation should be destroyed by death : 
and as this hypothesis was more probable, that is, more 
agreeable, to the common sense of mankind than its converse, 
so philosophy in this respect seemed to confirm the great truths 
of Christianity, which were derived from a higher source. Sub- 
sequent pretenders to philosophy, as some of the materialists 
and sceptics of modern times, have pretended the reverse, and 
have endeavoured to persuade themselves and others, that the 
philosophy of mind had a contrary tendency ; but their efforts 
have completely failed, and their reasoning is shown to have no 
solid basis ; and though they flourished for a time, during the 
twilight of resurgent science, and the revival of letters, yet they 
were soon overthrown, and Christianity at length got additional 

support from the very arguments before used to gainsay it, 

d 



fcXXlV PREFACE. 

and that, too, as soon as ever the most universally admitted 
axioms in philosophy became logically reasoned on."* But it is 
time to close these preliminary observations, and to proceed to 
the historal sketch of opinions. 

I shall glance over the opinions of Pythagoras who main- 
tained the doctrine of the transmigration of souls, as well as the 
philosophy of Socrates, because both are very indefinite, particu- 
larly the former, while the dogmas held by the latter will be found 
to coincide withjthose of Plato, the first great founder of a ra- 
tional philosophy of mind, who gathered the fragments of vari- 
ous other doctrines, digested them in his own mind, and bene- 
fiting by his travels among the priests and learned men of Egypt 
who had received aud retained the traditionary knowledge of 
the Hebrews from the time of the Jewish captivity, at length 
gave the world the system of ethics, after him called Platonism, 
which is the first that I shall try to describe. 

Plato, the founder of this philosophy, was born, according 
to the best authorities, in the isle of iEgina, when it was subject 
to Athens, in the third year of the 87 th Olympiad, or B. C. 
430. He was the son of Aristo, an Athenian, and was related 
both to Codrus and Solon. Dionjsius taught him letters : he 
studied music, poetry, and painting, at Athens, and learned 
philosophy first from Socrates, and then from the learned whom 
he met with in his ^Egyptian travels : thus was he educated in 
those branches of knowledge in which he afterwards so much 
excelled. He passed his life in celibacy and meditation, and 
died at the age of eighty years. 

* The reader may refer, for proofs of what I have advanced, to the following 
works : 

1. "Essay on Cause and Effect." 8vo. London. By the Rt. Hon. Lady Mary 
Sheppard. 

8. " Essays on the Perception of an External Universe," 12mo. London, By the 
same. 

3. " Essai sur l'lndifference en Matiere de Religion," in 4 volumes, 8vo. (vol. ii. 
Paris. By the Abbe De La Mennais. 

4. Catholic annual for 1830, Prolegomena. 



PllEFACE. XXXV 

It will be unnecessary here to gi\e the minutise of the vari- 
ous branches of philosophy taught by Plato,, of which he made 
general distinction into, 1. the Theological; 2. the Physical, 
and 3. the Mathematical. But the theological or metaphysical 
is what concerns us in this inquiry, and to that I shall confine 
my observations. 

The grand foundation of the theology of Plato is the receiv- 
ed axiom, that Be niliilo nihil fit, — that nothing can come from 
nothing ; which is^nothing more than saying, as we say in the 
language of modern metaphysics, that phsenoraena cannot be 
self generated, or that effects cannot be their own causes ; and 
hence a final cause must have from all eternity existed. From 
this axiom Plato lays it down as certain, that God. always ex- 
isted ; but he differs in this from other philosophers who have 
reasoned from the same basis, in declaring it to be equally cer- 
tain that matter under some form has also been existent from 
all eternity. Some writers, anxious to deduce the whole of 
Plato's philosophy from Revelation, have denied this ; but it is 
too clearly laid down in his Timmos to be doubted. Others, 
on the other hand, have treated the notion as Vague and incon- 
clusive, that Plato derived any of his theology from Moses ; 
but after much research this appears to me to be equally untrue. 
Plato travelled in ^Egypt, and there learned the wisdom of 
ancient traditions ; and the learned father Guerrin de Eocher 
has clearly proved, in his admirable work on the Fabulous His- 
tories of Antiquity, that the Egyptians and Greeks derived all 
their philosophy from the Israelites, and that the whole of the 
histories of Herodotus is taken from the history of the Jewish 
tribes. This notion is confirmed and ably defended in a small 
work, entitled, " Herodote historien du people Hebreu sans le 
Savoir," 12mo, Liege, 1790. The great coincidence of certain 
dogmas of the Platonic philosophy with those of the ancient 
Jews and of Christianity, affords also another strong presuinp- 



XXXVI PREFACE. 

tive proof of the correctness of the opinion above stated. 

It is remarkable, observes St. Augustine, that m many 
points Platonism is almost the same as Christianity. The 
learned father also goes on to remark, that the Platonists of 
his time were most of them easily converted to the Faith. 

But, as I have before observed, when the true religion got 
scattered abroad among the Gentiles, it was always more or less 
misunderstood and perverted by the mixture of human views 
and passions, and the errors of human judgment, and this is 
very conspicuous in some of the dogmas respecting the Deity 
and the origin of the world broached by Plato, which I must just 
notice before I quit the subject, leaving the reader in the mean- 
while to contemplate this striking fact, that the Platonic 
sclool, and consequently all the philosophers, hereafter to be 
described, who arose out of it, got their first notions of the 
immaterial soul, and of an eternal and uncreated God, from 
the same source, believed by all Christians to be divine, from 
whence all the doctrines of Judaism and of Christianity were 
derived. This, in the course of this inquiry, will be shown to 
be the case with all other doctrines by whatever philosophers 
they may have been held, which relate to these two remarkable 
and important truths. 

Plato maintained that there were three universal or elemen- 
tary principles, independently of matter called Soma or body, 
comprehending all the substance of the universe, which he 
seems to regard as having had a beginning : though some of 
the fathers who have written on Platonism, have represented 
him as believing in the coeternal existence of matter and 
spirit. 

Of the three elements to which I alluded, which composed 
the Godhead, the first he regarded as the Supreme Being exist- 
ing from all eternity, and called him To En, the Ens, otherwise 
called To Agathon, or the Good, a word corresponding to God. 



PREFACE. XXXV11 

Subordinate to whom, he supposes an essential creative and 
intelligent being called Nous, or mind, also styled the Demiour- 
gos, the Creator of the world, who proceeded by Divine ema- 
nation from the former, as from the universal parent. Between 
these two, and subordinate to both, was the psuche, or Prin- 
ciple of Life, the maintaining cause of all motion, a sort of 
soul of the world, and, as it were, the necessary living prin- 
ciple of organized matter which was made by the Demiourgos 
or great Artificer ; and being itself an effect of the Supreme 
Being, may be said to have proceeded from them both. And 
th us it has come to pass that Plato has been called a Trinita- 
rian. But I cannot help suspecting, from the fact in Plato's 
life and education before alluded to, that this was not an origi- 
nal thought of his, but one borrowed from some very ancient 
tradition respecting the Holy Trinity, to which the particular 
clue is now lost. Nor can we assign to the Indian Trinity, 
about which so much has been written, any better origin. It 
is only a more widely extended branch of the same original 
revelation. We know that the Old Testament is full of pro- 
totypical emblems of the Trinity, of Christ, and of the 
scheme of human redemption. I have already shown how the 
Egyptians derived their theology from the Jews.* 

Now, whether or no Plato regarded the material universe as 
coexisting for ever with God, this is certain, that he regarded 
the chaotic matter itself, formed or unformed, as an eternal and 
necessary existence ; he calls it in some places Necessity, and 
supposes, that being itself part of the Godhead, or of the Great 
All, it opposes obstacles to the absolute or unlimited omnipo- 
tence of the En, or Supreme Being. So that there should 



* Heeren's great work on the Commerce, Arts, and Chronology of antient nations being 
now translated, will be read with great avidity by the English reader, but I recommend 
that it be followed by a more attentive perusal of Guerrin de Rocher's Tems 
Fabuleux. 



XXXV111 



PREFACE. 



be things, in fact, absolutely impossible ; as for ins tance, caus- 
ing tilings which have been never to have been, or in other words, 
of annihilating past existence. For, according to Plato, it 
were impossible to make that never to have taken place, as 
Horace expresses it, qiiod fagiens semel hora vexit. All this, 
however, is a strange quibble, and only shows the poverty of 
unassisted human reason at all times; it further proves the 
defective state of logic in those times : for the assertion that 
Omnipotence is limited, in reality amounts to no more, than 
that God can do all things except change his own nature; 
which would be the same sort of thing as creating himself 
anew, which we have shown to be a contradiction to the whole 
of our doctrine of Cause and Effect. 

The above, then, is Platonism, at least as far as I recollect it ; 
for I read it many years ago in Greek, at Cambridge. 

Before I shall proceed to speak of the improved philosophy 
of Aristotle, I shall request the reader to bear in mind, 
that from the obstacles which the nature of matter opposes to 
the unlimited exercise of allpowerful omnibeneficence, is de- 
rived, according to Plato, the apparent imperfection, which we 
observe to be mixed up with all the works of the creation ; in 
other words, it is Avhat he calls the Origin of Evil. 

But we do not find in Platonism any personified Devil, or 
evil spirits, although, on the other side, he admits of sub- 
ordinate good spirits or JDaimones of a higher order than men ; 
and which correspond to our notions of angels and sanctified 
persons, the companions of Almighty God in heaven. 

I have not room to notice here the strange commentaries on 
the Platonic philosophy by Jamblichus, Porphyry, Proclus, 
Plutarch, Justin Martyr, Origen, and other more recent 
writers. 

Whether Plato did or did not regard the Deity as creating 
the world after an archetype externally existing in his own 



PREFACE. XXXlX 

mind, it is vain and useless to inquire: since such a 
question is utterly beyond the limits even of rational con- 
jecture. 

There is, however, one thing asserted by our philosopher 
worth noticing from its tendency to make us humble, and diffi- 
dent in our notions respecting the universe and its changing 
forms ; and from its coincidence with the Christian philosophy 
of St. Paul. Plato likens the state of the mind, in regard to 
the external world, to a person shut up in an obscure cave, into 
which only certain inlets to light were allowed, and who never- 
theless judged of all that is without from the shadow of a few 
things which were let in ! 

This observation is very good ; it corresponds with the best 
part of Kant's philosophy, and is confirmed by the last research- 
es of modern physiology, which proves to the phrenologist that 
all we know of exlernal objects is derived from the correspond- 
ing images that they cast, as it were, on our sensorium, through 
the medium of the external organs of sense, the eyes, the ears, 
the touch, and so on ; which images, when shewn on the sen- 
sorium or cerebral organs, are viewed by the mind itself, in all 
their various relations, and are often judged of with a degree of 
philosophic pride and arrogance that ill accords with the acknow- 
ledged imperfection of the instrument of their transmission. 
As if we really knew the whole of the external in itself, instead 
of merely viewing only a few of its passing shadows as they 
were reflected, in what the Apostle justly calls a darkened glass. 
Yidemus nunc per speculum in senigmate, tunc autem facie ad 
faciem ; nunc cognosco ex parte ; tunc autem cognoscam, sicut 
et cognitus sum; nunc autem manent, Fides, Spes, Caritas, 
tria hsec, major autem horum est Caritas.^ 

The coincidence between Platonism and Christianity is, as 

* Corinth, ch. xv. 



xl PREFACE. 

St. Austin observed, very striking ; but this is not all that is 
remarkable ; it is further to be observed, that the latter, by 
means of its connection with an authorized apostolical ministry 
and church, or an ecclesiastical polity from whose centre all its 
defenders and teachers were, as one may say, radii, moving 
round a centre of unity, has been maintained pure and uncor- 
rupted for ages ; but the former, though taken up by various 
of Plato's followers, was soon mistaken, changed, or transmo- 
grified into a hundred whimsical systems, according to the res- 
pective fancies of the individuals, as I shall hereafter show, 
when speaking of the later disciples of this school of philosophy. 
This variety of opinion and confusion of thought, resembled the 
Babel of contending doctrines which began to prevail at the 
time of the Reformation, when every one used his individual 
private judgment in matters often above reason; and when 
authority, or the consensus of council, that great criterion of 
truth, was too much laid aside, or too wilfully neglected. I 
cannot help digressing a little here, in order to say something 
of the nature and construction of councils, as affording a foun- 
dation of certitude in matters requiring the most extensive 
knowledge and judgment. 

If we reflect on the several imperfections which belong more 
or less to every individual mind, we shall not expect to find any 
one person's mind, any more than we should any one's body, 
so perfect in all its functions and powers as to preclude the possi- 
bility of partial defects of judgement ; one man, for instance, 
may judge perfectly of mathematical propositions, another of 
music, a third of historical facts, and a fourth of metaphysical 
questions ; but no one of all these could singly be supposed a 
competent judge of all the branches of knowledge alluded to. 
The settling of the policy of the Christian Church, and the ex- 
amination of its doctrines, became a work that involved num- 
erous questions requiring the exercise of various sorts of judge- 



PREFACE. xli 

mcnt and of knowledge, and consequently it required numerous 
persons of different kinds of mind to examine it. Now the Assem- 
bly of Council was an arrangemnt whereby the partial defects of 
one man's judgement should be supplied by the corresponding 
perfections of another ; and thus, when any question was pro- 
posed for discussion to a Council of many minds, it was consis- 
tent with the doctrine of chances to expect that among them 
would be found various persons capable severally of discussiug 
the divers questions which the said proposition involved ; and 
generally truth was the result. And if we reflect on the num- 
ber and succession of such Councils of the ablest, and most dis- 
interested, and pious men who ever lived, by which the ortho- 
dox Christian philosophy, has been t;ied and approved, it ought 
to make us view with very suspicious eyes all deviations from 
that doctrine ; neither ought the opinions of Plato, Locke, or 
any other individual to weigh much against it. I mention this, 
merely because I have often heard Mr. Locke's heterodox opin- 
ions, both in matters of moral philosophy and of religion, quoted 
by superficial persons in opposition to older and better established 
dogmas. This is the abuse, and not the use of authority. Any 
talented individual, without vanity, might say, " Why is not 
my opinion on speculative questions as good as Locke's Milton's, 
or Des Cartes,or fifty more such, considering that they all differed 
from each other ?" But it would be arrogance in any man to 
place his private judgement in opposition to that of a body of 
learned men, all agreeing together. Such, for example, as the 
Councils of Trent, of Nice, or of Lateran ! 

To return from this digression, to Platonism, I say that 
though to a superficial mind, who confounds religion with its 
externals, there may seem to be no great similitude between 
Christianity and the Platonic Philosophy ; yet to a contempla- 
tive mind, who regards God, as some of our learned authors 
have expressed it, in the light of a bouudless ocean of creative 



xlii PPEFACE. 

intelligence, from whence all creatures come as from their 
source, and to whom they all return ; who considers personal 
organization as a contrivance for dividing off minds from the 
great parent mind, and giving to each a separate individual 
existence, and placing them in a certain relation to the external 
world, and to other beings similar to themselves, during a 
limited term of life, wherein they are to be disciplined and pre- 
pared for a future state of existence ; to a person, I say, who 
thus regards God and created beings, there will appear such a 
striking analogy between the doctrines of Plato and those of 
CHRIST, that it would be next to impossible not to suppose 
that there must be some sort of connection between them. 
And tins notion is rendered further probable by what I have 
alluded to above, respecting the countries into which Plato 
travelled. But it is time to consider his followers, and to 
maintain the position which I have advanced, that the philoso- 
phy of mind went on degenerating till the time of Locke. 

Aristotle was born at Stagira, in Thrace, in B. C. 384, and 
was left by his parents with a good fortune. He studied philoso- 
phy at Athens from the age of seventeen, and Plato observed 
of him that his genius rather wanted curbing than exciting. 
His passion, however, for philosophy having no other spur 
than worldly ambition, did not prevent him from a foppishness 
of dress for which he was often ridiculed. He became the pre- 
ceptor of Alexander the Great, * and after a long life of study, 
of experiment, and of great vicissitude, died in retirement at 
Chalcis in Euboea, in the sixty third year of his age. . 

Aristotle's works are very voluminous ; he wrote a history of 
animals, a history of meteorology, on logic, on physics, and on 
metaphysics ; it is with the latter particularly, in as much as 
they relate to the philosophy of the human mind, that our in- 

* Justin. Hist. lib. xii, cap. 16, and Plin. Hist. Nat. lib. viii, cap. 16. 



PREFACE. xliii 

quiries here are directed ; for, as I have before observed, the 
term metaphysics was first applied to such of his writings that 
went beyond physics, by certain of his survivors in the peripat- 
etic school of philosophy, which school was founded by him at 
Athens, and was held in the Lyceum, the regular academic 
chair being at that time occupied by Xenocrates the successor 
of Speusippus. 

Here it was that, Aristotle sauntering about while he gave his 
lectures, the name of Peripatetic was given to his school in con- 
sequence ; a name which it ever after retained. To this audience 
he delivered both his Esoteric and his Exoteric Philosophy, but 
to the hitter the public at large were also admitted. 

The Aristotelian philosophy of mind differs from the Platon- 
ic in this, that it is less simple and concise, though better ex- 
pressed, from the habit of logical argument that Aristotle used; 
but, like that of Plato, it is based on axioms, or primary truths, 
which all men are force:!, from the nature of the human mind, to 
admit rather than their converse. He calls his science Onto- 
logy, or the doctrine concerning Being, and the first great ax- 
iom is, That the same thing cannot be and not be in the sane 
subject, and in the same respect, and at the same time. Second- 
ly, Being or Ens exists either in itself or by accident* Now 
I can put no other construction on this strange expression than 
this, that Being is either Final Cause, or is variously recogniz- 
ed in the secondary chains of causes and effects, which constit- 
ute the accidents, or fallings out, of all things in the course of 
the whole chequered scenery of the moving universe. Neither 
can I find in the doctrine of Aristotle on this subject anything 
but what has been repeated again and again by Locke and by 
subsequent philosophers, and which is as clearly developed per- 
haps in Lady Mary Shepherd's Essay on Cause and Effect, as 

* Accident is frem accidere to fall out. 



xliv 



PREFACE. 



in any treatise that lias come to my knowledge. Aristotle, 
however, goes on to describe active and passive power, the one 
being the cause of motion, and the other the resistance made 
by matter; but if we closely reflect on these tvvo things, w r e 
shall perceive that they are reducible to the same principles. 
Active power or the motive principle of change, in whatsoever 
it may reside, is what we n ean by Cause, and the Effects pro- 
duced are the instantaneous products of the interferences of 
matter with its operation. The particular product or effect is 
found to possess further latent powers of causation, and may 
operate again on other forms of matter, which, interfering or 
resisting, produce yet other effects, and so on through the 
the whole world. Now, the sum total or aggregate ol 
all phenomena is called Nature, from the corrupted ge- 
rund of nascor ; and it implies a perpetual power imparted to 
effects to become in their turn causes, subjected to a general 
law emanating originally from the Final Cause. The Nature 
of Things is therefore a term comprehending not only our 
knowledge of the things themselves, but our knowledge of their 
past and future relations also, which we learn by examining 
them as they appear as a chain of causes and effects. 

Again, Aristotle conceived Being to be twofold, notional or 
in the mind, and real, that is, external. This is indeed true 
in one sense, and it is nothing more than what modern phy- 
siologists have expressed by saying, that we do not see things 
as they exist without, but merely as they act on our sensorium ; 
and it is what is better expressed, as I before observed, when 
alluding to the Platonic doctrine on which it is founded, by St. 
Paul, who regarded the perception of objects by us in this our 
perilous bondage of flesh as imperfect : so that, not compre- 
hending the whole nature of things as they are viewed by the 
Creator, we are apt to regard the world's waning shadows cast 
on the ^speculum of our minds as an enigma; all, however 



PREFACE. 



xlv 



which to us now appears either contradictory or imperfect, may 
by and bye in another state appear to ns perfect, as it now 
does to God, who can behold the whole of his works moving 
in the full harmony which pervades them in all their endless 
relations. It will be subsequently shown that philosophers in 
later times have been found, who, trusting too much to their 
own judgement, and coming to hasty conclusions from false 
axioms, have actually denied or doubted the existence of exter- 
nal and continuously existing bodies, as Berkeley, Des Cartes, 
andothers; or have misunderstood the proofs of their exis- 
tence, as Pichte and his school ; that Locke, Stewart, Reid, 
and others, misunderstood the way to refute them ; and lastly, 
that there is a way of proving an " External Universe/'' by the 
most logical arguments based on universally admitted axioms, 
whereby we can shew that external things not only continue to 
exist when no longer perceived by the mind, but that they 
exist in all their apparent relations to each other ; that without 
this proof there could be no such thing as available knowledge, 
but that with it, we only show that what the common sense of 
ail mankind, when unperverted by fools and sceptics, has 
always assented to; and what all religion has enjoined, is 
logically proved and confirmed by the last efforts of metaphy- 
sical philosophy. 

Aristotle's notions of God were more perplexed, and appa- 
rently less clear, than those of Plato : he conceives the motion 
of the heavenly bodies to be co-eternal with the First Mover, 
and to comprehend the causes of all other motions ; so that it 
has been actually disputed whether he ought to rank among 
Theists or Atheists. But as he speaks of the Original Cause 
as being distinct from the worlds that He guides, we ought to 
regard hira as a believer in God : at the same time that his 
conceptions of the Divinity are far less sublime than Plato's, 
from whose philosophy, as I before observed, Aristotle may 



xlvi 



PREFACE. 



therefore be regarded as the first instance of that degeneracy 
which ran through all the ' ' philosophers " down to the time 
of Locke. 

In the practical application of knowledge to the culture and 
improvement of young minds, however, Aristotle exceeded his 
master. He wrote on the Conduct of the Understanding, as 
well as Locke, and with much effect. One thing that he 
recommends is, as I believe from my own researches in physio- 
logy, so important that I cannot omit to mention it here : — 
that young geniuses should never be too much forced ; that 
the strength and particular bias of the mind, in spite of all the 
powerful effect produced by variety of native genius and of 
organs, is mainly owing to the impressions received in child- 
hood and early life ; and that between the age of puberty and 
the two or three following years the mental energies should 
not b 3 uracil called forth; but athlet ic exercise, good air, 
early rising, and temperance and discretion in the quality of 
food, should be mainly resorted to, not only to strengthen the 
bodily fabric, but to give the mind, or perhaps, more properly 
speaking, the organs of its manifestation, such a healthy tone 
as shall enable it to act with vigour to an advanced period of 
life, and only disappear with the gradual decay of the whole 
body in an easy and natural death.* 

The Philosophy of Pythagoras, had I space for it, would 
seem to demand a more particular attention ; for, in my opinion 
at least, it is the most probable of all the hypotheses, which 
have been invented to explain existing pha3nomena. Having ad- 
mitted a Sentient principle distinct from matter in man, analo- 
gy will not allow us to explain the phenomena of animal life, 



* Mr. Abemethy, as I recollect, dwelt on this truth, w th great force in his Lectures . 
and I have endeavoured to illustrate it in my little Treatise on " Medicina Simplex, or 
Handbook of Domestic Physic and Surgery," sold by Keating and Brown. 



PREFACE. Xlvli 

in general, on any other principle. Without, however going 
into all the whimsical explanations of the metempsychosis, 
which Pythagoras seems to have adopted from India, I shall 
consent myself with referring to the arguments which I have 
always made use of to shew the probability that all animals are 
immortal, and that consequently ihe basis of the Pythagorean 
Philosophy was true. The arguments I allude to may be 
thus briefly stated. Phrenology has proved, that all animals 
and. man in common manifest their peculiar faculties in conse- 
quence of peculiar organizations. If animals could reason, 
feel, in short perform all the various functions of life without a 
soul or in other words an immaterial principle, I ask, why 
could not man do the same ? The doctrine of Pythagoras, so 
far from being hostile to Christianity, actually comes in aid of 
religion and removes one of the greatest obstacles which Pti- 
losophy has ever thrown in the way of Faith. As I have 
explained all this at full length in my work entitled P/dlozoia, 9 
as well as in a Pamphlet entitled Sati or Universal Immorta- 
lity, I shall say no more of it here, but refer to those works. 
Suffice it to say in this place that the philosophy of Pythagoras 
was and is more extensively believed all over the East than 
any other, and is the basis of the Hindoo religion. 

The necessary limits of this Preface will oblige me to pass 
over, or at least to notice very slightly, the opinions of Xeno- 
crates, Zeno, and other philosophers of the Academy and of the 
Peripatetic school ; for they taught, generally speaking, only mo- 
difications of Platonism, and, falling short of the excellence of 
their original, are not worthy of much notice. A close atten- 
tion, however, which I have paid to the varieties of genius and 
of opinion which these writers have exhibited, compared with 
those of other philosophers in far distant countries, both ancient 
and modern, has only served to convince me of the truth of the 
old proverb, that " there is nothing new under the sun," at 



xlviii PREFACE. 

least when this adage is applied to speculative opinion; for we 
find the same varieties of doctrine, the same views of God and 
the soul, and the same cavils, objections, and heresies, sported 
over again and again, as one generation has succeeded another. 
The same observation will apply to nearly all subjects of specu- 
lative knowledge, which involve powerful hopes and fears : the 
same tragedies have been exhibited, and the same farces have 
been acted ; the same serious thoughts given forth, and pre- 
tentions to authority vaunted ; the same sort of religious poems 
written either as canticles, hymns, or carols, and the same sat- 
ires directed against them ; the same doubts engendered ; the 
same mutual accusations and conflicts preferred by parties : 
and the same ignorance ultimately confessed on the part of 
those who are humble, candid, and intellectual, in life's great am- 
phitheatre of passing and delusive spectres, over and over again 
in every age and every country, from the earliest dawn of his- 
tory to the present hour ! Plato loved solitary contemplation, 
like the anchorites ; Socrates would fain die for his opinions, 
like the martyrs ; Epicurus was a fair prototype of modern sen- 
suality. Every country has had its Momus and its Diogenes ; 
every age its Horace and its Juvenal, its Demosthenes and its 
Cicero. Virgil was the Homer of the Eomans, who in Italy 
sprung up in Tasso, and in England in Milton. The trage- 
dians of Greece, iEschylus, Euripide6, and Sophocles, have 
their represensatives in modern Europe, for genius is ever va- 
rying, though never lost; and sentiments, which were depicted 
on the stage at Athens, appeared again in our great dramatic 
poet Shakspeare. * The same remark applies with equal force 



* There is, in tiuth, nothing absolutely " new under the sun," not a caprice of Intel- 
lect, of Sentiment, or of Passion, which has not been manifested before, but always under 
modifications, filling every link in the Category, according to some eternal law of varia. 
tion : See the author's Latin Poem entitled Somnium Philosophicum. 



PBEFACE. 



xlix 



to moral philosophy and religion, and to their opponents and 
satyrists. The manner in which Aristophanes directed the 
shafts of ridicule against the theorists of his age, is brought 
again to mind by the satirical effusions of Voltaire, and the un- 
holy witticisms of the modern sceptical poets. 

Seeing then, that all varieties of opinion recur on the most 
ordinary as well as the profoundest subjects ; we might very 
naturally look for the greatest variety in matters of speculative 
philosophy and religion : not only because of the intense im- 
pulse which they must give to our hopes, fears, and expecta- 
tions ; but because, being subjects over which the light of truth 
has been partially shed, they reflect its rays with a variety cor- 
responding to that of all the individual diversities of the hu- 
man mind : just as the beams of the sun, cast, on an immense 
number of prisms and moving mirrors, would be for ever re- 
flecting or transmitting all the infinite shades and combinations 
of colour, which would be successively exhibited over and over 
again like the returning combinations of a kaleidescope, so 
long as the original light, and the material of the reflecting 
mirrors, should both remain essentially the same. 

In religion we shall find this observation to apply in its full- 
est force: every variety of thought on the subject, wherever 
individual judgement is left free, is exercised again and again in 
almost every age and clime. But we must emergefrom the se- 
clusions of a life at home, and range abroad among nations ; 
we must leave the light literature of our own day, and wade 
through the stores of antiqu%, in order to be convinced of 
this truth. We shall then find the opinions, the rites, the mys- 
teries, and the moral virtues of our own quarter of the globe 
existing, however modified by circumstances, in the remotest 
Oriental regions. The hymns of the Christian poets are to be 
found in their peculiar spirit in the Psalms of David ; but we 
must not stop here; penetrate the refulgent oouirtafiea of 



1 PREFACE. 

the Medes and the Persians, and you will find the same or 
similar ideas and sentiments of devotion dressed up in all the 
alluring and sensual imagery of Asiatic enthusiasm, in the poe- 
try of Hafi z, in the songs of Jayadeva, in the rhapsodies of Mes- 
nevy, and in the sacred mysteries of Bhagavat ! 

The same observation applies also to subjects of speculative 
philosophy and metaphysicks, and it is for this reason that I pass 
over so lightly the variations of opinion on the nature of God, 
the universe, and the human mind, exhibited by the Stoics, the 
Sophists, and other subsequent philosophers : for we shall have 
occasion to find most of their opinion? embraced by one or 
other of the modern writers. Even the doctrine of Pythagoras 
respecting the transmigration of sonls still exists among some 
casts of the Hindoo and the Gentoo Indians ; nor are there 
wanting enlightened persons here and there in polished Europe 
who have embraced the same opinion. 

So great is the disposition to differ among mankind, that if 
we only set any great number of men thinking on speculative 
subjects, who have not a given and imperative rule to go by, 
they will all think differently. Take only an example in mo- 
dern heresy : the moment the clarion of discord was sounded 
at the Reformation, and the mind left free, or comparatively so, 
to speculate on truths which had heretofore been accepted ac- 
cording to one particular rule of faith, almost every man began 
to differ from his neighbour ; and in a few years modern schis- 
matics greatly outdid the Academicks of old in the number and 
versatility of their dissentions.. The Christian Church had for 
nearly fifteen centuries kept opinions confined to certain rules ; 
but in less than fifty years after the bonds of unity were burst 
asunder, and the caprices of private judgment let loose on the 
faith of our forefathers, every grade from scepticisim to cre- 
dulity was occupied — the Catholic alone maintained the ancient 
faitb pure, and defying the wavering dictates of human reason, 



PREFACE. li 

adhered to doctrines that had been confirmed by the great 
Councils of his learned and pious ancestors. The Protestant 
soon derided the mysteries and ceremonies of the Catholic, the 
Independent condemned the doctrine and policy of the Protest- 
ant Episcopalian,, the Calvinist growled at the consubstantiation 
of the Lutheran, the Arian despised the credulity of the Trinitar- 
ian, the Socinian smiled at the fastidious distinctions of the Ari- 
an, the Deist derided the Socinian, and the Atheist laughed at 
them all ! 

By degrees each sect went on subdividing, till every concei- 
vable variety of error and of schism was made manifest, in the 
forms of Baptists, Autinomians, Swedenburgians, Quakers, 
Methodists, and Jumpers. Meanwhile crime, the constant 
result of the dissolution of harmony among men, began to in- 
crease to a frightful degree, while insanity, so apt to spring 
from the wild sallies of a gloomy and ill directed imagination, 
began to fill the mad -houses of Europe with crazy enthusiasts. 
No»v all these heresies were only modified repetitions of what 
the Church had before had to combat in the heresies of the 
Arians, Albigenses, Mouothelites, Jansenists, and other schis- 
matics of former ages. Neither are other climes wanting in 
corresponding variation of culte and its subdivisions. 

At the same time that professed Christians were reviving 
the heresies of the middle ages of the Church, the Philosophers, 
participating in the habit of free inquiry which was become the 
fashion, revived all the theories and whimsical hypotheses of 
the Grecian and Eoman schools, though modified by modern 
discoveries. Hobbes revived the materialism of Lucretius; 
Helvetius asserted that the whole mind was made by educa- 
tion; others contended for separate instinct, and so on: all, 
however, were much degenerated from the halcyon days of 
Grecian philosophy; and even Bacon himself, who wrote so 
able an analysis of the particular powers, defects, and idols of 



Hi PREFACE. 

the human mind, seems to me to have known but little 
about the first principles of the philosophy of mind itself. 

It was in this state of things, that Mr. Locke's Essay concerning 
Human Understanding came out, and by degrees superseded 
all the other systems of philosophy : and though it was at 
first opposed by those who were bigoted to past errors, it soon 
gained ground, and before thirty years had elapsed was become 
the only book of the kind, with the exception of Aristotle, that 
was much used in our universities. Locke, however, only laid 
the foundation of a better system of philosophy, of a kind, than 
had prevailed for centuries before him ; he by no means com- 
pleted it : his opinions were in certain particulars very errone- 
ous : but they led men to think more closely than heretofore, 
and though they gave rise to many new and imperfect theories, 
yet the collision of all these together produced a good effect, 
by exposing each other's imperfections ; till at length the won- 
derful engine of logic began to be better understood, and 
sound logical arguments being at length built upon the basis 
of the most obvious axioms, a close habit of thinking and rea- 
soning was engendered, which led to the last achievement of 
metaphysical philosophy. But, after all, the result has only 
been a confirmation of the profound ignorance which we are all 
in respecting the origin of things and the nature of mind, and 
a proof of the conformity or agreement of the little which we 
have discovered, with what we are told by the inspired writers, 
and the necessity, which all must confess, to admit certain 
truths, and those the most important, as matters of faith j 
without which all would still be doubt, and perplexity, and 
discomfiture. Some short account of the peculiar doctrines of 
Locke and of the different philosophers who followed him, may 
be expected by the reader after what I have said ; which I shall 
therefore endeavour to give. 

One of the fundamental doctrines of Locke's Essay is, that 



PREFACE. Itf* 



there are no innate Ideas or Principles, but that we derive all 
from experience. This therefore shall be the first thing which I 
proceed to discuss. He says, there are no innate principles in 
the Mind. Now I should be disposed here to differ with him 
in the very onset ; reserving only this subterfuge, that I do not 
quite understand how much of our nature is included under 
the term Mind. Regarding the mind as the individualized 
capacity for sensation itself, there can be no innate notions in 
it, but if we include the Sensoriuui or organic apparatus of 
sensation, it seems to me that there are innate Principles. That 
is to say, the organization of every individual has a determinate 
nature ; and Ideas which are modes of its action, however they 
may correspond to external things, depend for their manifesta- 
tion as well on the properties of the organ as they do on the 
impressions made thereon by exterior objects, through the 
medium of the external senses. In other words, the realities 
or objects perceived are Effects produced, of which externol 
and continuously existing objects are the exciting Causes ; but 
the conditions of their being made manifest to the mind are in 
the organization, which is innate, or in other words born with 
us. Mr. Locke has either misunderstood this, or has not 
expressed himself clearly on the subject. In short, throughout 
the whole Essay similar oversights or blunders are observable, 
owing to want of a systematic philosophical language. 

Mr. Locke next proceeds to say, that the origin of all ideas 
is from experience ; and consequently that they cannot depend 
on any innate principle. It is thus far true, that ideas are de- 
rived from experience, that the impressions received from the 
exernal objects are what first excite their corresponding images 
or ideas in the sensorium ; but new combinations of them are 
formed, by what is called the power of the imagination, and 
this power is not only innate in every body, but is very various 
in its kind and degree in different individuals. Eor example, 



Kv PREFACE. 

if ideas of colour and of form had not been at first received 
from the coloured shapes of external things, we could perhaps 
never have imagined them ; but ; having once received these 
ideas, we hare power to recombine them in modes that they 
never assume in nature. TTe can in fancy see a red cow with 
a black horse's head on her shoulders ; but we must first have 
seen an animal and a colour, or we could ncthayeso combined 
the elements as to form the menster which I have described. 
I ought here, however to agree with my readers, on the terms 
which I use for mental operations, in order that, in describing 
the different systems of Philosophy, all of which employ terms 
very differently, I may have some established standard of refer- 
ence. Mr. Locke speaks of ideas cf Perception, ideas of Sen- 
sation, of Reflection, and so on : which terms he uses in a man- 
ner calculated rather to mislead than to direct his readers in the 
acquisition of clear notions of menial Philosophy ; I shall there- 
fore observe here, that in describing the operations of Mind, I 
shall use the word Sensation as the generic term including 
many varieties : for in fact all cur ideas, images, perceptions of 
objects, sensations cf pain and of pleasure, &c. are all of them 
sensations, though of different sorts. Ard I find it impossible 
to proceed in describing the systems of mental Philosophy till 
I have defined some of these. Sensation, then, is first divided 
into two great and important classes, namely, Observatlve Sen- 
sation, or what has been called tha perception of external ob- 
jects ; and ConcepHve Sensation, which includes under its gene- 
ric term the several varieties which we call Recollection, Imag- 
ination, and so on. It constitutes the great storehouse of 
memory, as well as the laboratory of the creative fancy, and 
confers on man the powers of forming endless new combinations 
of ideas. It is probably the high degree in which man possesses 
tliis power that gives him the marked superiority over other 
animals ; winch are, as Dr. Gall used to say, in all their grada- 



PftKFACE. 1* 

tions, nothing but fragments of the human species, more and 
more perfect in proportion as they ascend in the scale, from the 
polypus and star-fish to the perfections of the higher orders of 
warm blooded animals, which approximate to man. 

Observative Seusations have all causes external to the Sen- 
sorium, or in other words have objects in the external world 
which they represent, as when we observe or look at a horse, a 
ball, or a prospect. But Conceptive Sensations do not imply 
the presence of external objects ; for, firstly, we can conceive or 
think of a horse, a ball, or a prospect in our chamber, when 
those objects are removed. When these conceptive sensations 
occur during sleep, when the observative sensations do not in- 
trude and force into notice their more vivid and consistent ima- 
gery, the conceptive sensations amount to what is called dream- 
ing, in which state the mind mistakes them for the observative, 
or, in other words, believes them to be external objects. * It 
sometimes happens, from a high or morbid state of sensibi- 
lity, that the conceptive sensations take place while we are 
awake with all the vividity of the observative, and even mix 
with them ; and hence it happens that people see phantoms, or 
spectral images as they are called, roving about the room among 
the furniture, and intermingling with real persons who may 
occupy the apartments ; of which a frightful instance is record- 
ded by Mr. Nicolai of Berlin, as having happened to himself. 
He saw for several days, and with perfect composure, after the 
first alarm was over, the forms of numerous persons and animals 
moving about in his study before him like people in a market, 
and it was only by trying to touch them that he discovered 



* The word real is vulgarly used to distinguish images of observative sensation from 
those of the conceptive ; it is defective in its power of definition, for hoth are real, this 
word coming from reor, I think. Whereas the difference does not lie in our thinking, but 
In the circumstance that in the case of " real" the object has an external and continu- 
ous cause, which goes on existing when no longer a matter of sensation. 



hi PREFACE. 

their illusive nature ; before they disappeared, they lost their 
natural colours, and became white, and vanished by appearing 
as fragments smaller and smaller till they were lost. This was 
only an instance of intensified conceptive sensations. * Two 
important considerations belong to this class of sensations : one 
is that of insanity • for if, when such images of conceptive sen- 
sation appear, the patient should lose, while awake, the power 
of distinguishing them from observative sensations, or " real 
objects," as all men do in dreams, then, I believe, he would be, 
to all intents, mad. The second consideration I alluded to is 
that of Revelations ; for it is conceivable that God may im- 
mediately act on the sensorium in such a manner as to upraise 
and present to the mind prophetic visions, that is, conceptive 
sensations or images which have an available import as messen- 
gers of good or evil tidings of the future, of which the religious 
history of every country presents abundance of examples ; nei- 
ther is the use and divine import of any vision or angelical 
communication at all affected or rendered the less available by 
the particular manner which the Deity may choose as the mode 
of communicating hia will. 

Another thing I wish to observe before I go on to consider 
systems of philosophy is, that though by means of our five senses 
and the observative sensations which they occasion, we become 
accpaainted with the existence and relations of objects in the ex- 
ternal world, yet the images themselves are all located within 
us : the seat of them all is in the sensorium or organization : 
and thus, as the place of the object immediately perceived is 
concerned, the horses, houses, dogs, and all the scenery of the 
world, are precisely, for any thing we can discover to the con- 
trary, in the same place as their recollected images, so that when, 

• I have copied this and several other authentic accounts of such spectral illusions 
into my Book on the Plague and other Epidemic Diseases, 8vo. Keating and Brown, 
London, 1829. 



PREFACE. Ivil 

either in sleep or iu a state of vigilance, the latter become in- 
tensified, they are easily mistaken for +he former. But, though 
all perceived images are within the body, they are nevertheless 
external to the Mind or sensient Capacity itself. This circum- 
stance explains a curious and otherwise unaccountable property 
of some dreams, as observed by Baxter, in his Book on the 
Soul, namely, that we feel surprise at what comes across us in 
dreams, " which we would not do," says he, "if the mind manu- 
factured its own imagery." He infers from hence that Dreams 
are presented to us by Spirits or some external agents. Now 
the fact seems to be, that the organized Sensorium or seat, 
whereever it may be in the brain, of ideas, does by its ow r n vital 
activity, or from some impressions received by sympathy from 
other organs, reproduce and combine those sensations of the 
sensible qualities of objects, which, having been origin- 
ally olservative, or caused by external objects, and which, having 
been retained in the memory, are capable of being revived as 
conceptive sensations. 

Under the class of Observative Sensations I should also enu- 
merate pain or pleasurable sensation, which, though they can- 
not be called images, have nevertheless external causes, and are 
in the sense of touch, which is a property of all the organs, and 
is to them all in general what those modes of sensation called 
vision, hearing, tasting, and smelling, are to certain organs in 
particular. As we can remember pain and pleasure, as well as 
objects of sight and touch and smell, so they may also become 
in their turn conceptive as well as observative sensations. 

Whether that state of consciousness of existence, which in Ger- 
man philosophy is called self feeling, is both observative and 
conceptive, or something between both, I am not certain : it 
is a feeling difficult to define, and may consist in some general 
sensation of the vital motions of the body during life ; which 
may vary from being painful to being pleasurable. I can only 

g 



Iviil PREFACE. 

bring it to the reader's mind by supposing a case, in which, all 
the senses being destroyed or dead, the living organs would still 
go on with vital action,and furnish to the mind the simple consci- 
ousness of existence. Mr. Clissold, in his elegant little pamphlet 
no the Mind, has drawn a different and more pleasing illustra- 
tion of his general feeling, from the case of a curious and happy 
child, who exclaimed, What a funny thing it is to be alive ! 

With, these premises I shall go on to speak of Mr. Locke 
and the Philosophers who followed him, because having now 
made the definitions laid down above, I have cleared the way 
to elucidate the obscure expressions to be found in most books 
on metaphysics. Mr. Locke proceeds to speak of ideas of re- 
flection, making a sort of false distinction between them and 
sensations. Now reflection is the power of the mind to compare 
ideas whether of observative or of conceptive sensation, to judge 
of the relations of Cause and Effect, and to arrive thence at 
certain available conclusions. It is a power of mind dependent 
like every other for its manifestation ou organs, and it includes 
also sensation. For though volition be exerted in this exercise, 
yet comparisons are sensations of differences or similitudes, and 
in like manuer the knowledge of Cause and Effect is a concep- 
tive sensation, or intuitive perception of the power of one thing, 
by interfering with another, to produce a third ; and hence we 
arrive by inference at another sensation, that of a Eirst and Ein- 
al Power, or Eternal Cause of all things. I only give these ex- 
amples in order to correct some mistakes which have arisen from 
Mr. Locke's indefinite manner of describing sensations, and the 
arbitrary distinctions which have been made, which do not ap- 
pear to me to correspond with Nature. 

Mr. Locke next goes on to show that the mind, or, as he 
calls it, the soul, does not always think ; the proofs, however, 
of an amorphous state of the mind are not well made out. With 
the exception of perfect sleep, it seems that the mind is always 



PREFACE. Hx 

more or less active. The very consciousness of existence, or 
the general sensatioa of vital notions called self-feeling, implies 
activity in the sentient principle, which we call mind. Mr. 
Locke, however, well observes, that the perception of ideas is 
to the mind what motion is to the body, nor is it more essenti- 
ally necessary for the one to be always in action than for the 
other. Sensation being one of the functions of which the 
mind is capable, it is not to be identified with mind itself. 
This is true enough ; and it is what I have been con- 
tending for all along and is an assertion strictly borne out 
by sound reasoning. The mind being a word we use to express 
the Identical Capacity for Sensation, or what we may call the 
Self, is that which constitutes the individual existence of every 
animal ; but it is not necessarily always in action. The ques- 
tion, however, resolves itself into this, — whether, allowing Sen- 
sation always to be an effect resulting from the interventional 
agency of the Sensormm acting between the internal capacity for 
Sensation or Mind, and the external causes of Sensation on 
Objects, is ever so completely at rest during life as to allow the 
mind to be without the consciousness of anything. Now this 
question will illustrate the distinction I have drawn between 
the two sorts of sensation ; for in reply thereto we may answer, 
that if all sensations were necessarily what I have called obser- 
vative, or, in other words, were only such as are caused by the 
presence of external objects acting on the senses, then it would 
appear evident, that whenever external objects were withdrawn, 
sensation would cease : but since sensations are also conceptive, 
or, in other words, are remembrances or new combinations of 
objects once perceived, and re-exhibited to the mind by its or- 
gans, it will be difficult, since the organic sensorium in which 
these ideas appear is always at hand, to show that the Capacity 
for Sensation itself shall ever be free from interference. Another 
thing, too, ought to be mentioned, namely that though objects 



Ix PREFACE. 

exterior to the skin., or outward covering of the body, might be 
shut out by the sleep of the five senses, yet the vital motions 
which take place with the body, as pulsation, and so on, which 
in fact are, when perceived, something between ccnceptive 
and observative sensations, might nevertheless continue to 
keep the mind in a sensative state. However, what Mr. Locke 
has written on both this subject and on ihe origin of ideas from 
without, is so calculated to make men think deeply on this great 
branch of metaphysics, that it is a wonder it did not sooner lead 
to a sound and logical Philosophy of Mind. It ought to have 
led men much earlier to perceive that every manifestation of the 
mind was the result of the interference of its living organs, while 
the mind itself, or capacity of sensation,was a principle as distinct 
from the vital powers of its organs, as the latter was from the ma* 
terial fabric of the universe. All these three principles are distinct 
in essence, though they exist in relation to each other; and hence 
theknowledge of them explains the three powers,or Soma, Psuche, 
or Nov s of the Greek philosophers ; the Corpus, Vita, and Anima, 
of the Piomans; the Objectivity, Subjectivity, and Sentiency, 
of the modern disciples of Kant : and the Body, Liee, and 
Mind, of the Physiology of Abernethy. 

This threefold division of the elementary principles of Uni- 
versal Being has at times been so striking, and has so forcibly 
absorbed the minds of men, that persons have not been found 
wanting who have resolvedDeity itself into the same principles of 
which they consider the microcosm of man as the image, and 
thus, by merely adding terms of infinity, instead of limitation, 
have described the Godhead as the universal essence or source 
of these three powers, or as Infinite Intelligence, a power crea- 
tive of Universal Substance, and a pervading illumination or 
vital power the Giver of Life. This, they say, corresponds to 
the Ens, Bemiourgos, and Psyche of Platonism ; and is the basis 
of the Indian Trinity. 



PREFACE. 



ki 



The poet has elegantly expressed this spirit or pervading 
principle of life supporting created matter under all its forms 
of planets and stars and their inhabitants, and animated by 
universal mind : 

" Principio ccelum. ac terras, eamposque liquentes, 
Lucentemque globum Lunae, Titaniaque astra, 
Spiritus intus alit, totamque infusa per artus 
Mens agitat molem, et magno se corpore miscet." 

Not only "Virgil, but Lucretius, Ovid, Lucan, and almost 
all the great poets of Greece, of Rome, and of modern Europe, 
have broken out into similar strains, and exhibited, as if by 
accident, in the course of their descriptions of Nature, sublime 
and imposing pictures of her Powers and Author, which shows 
how naturally great minds are led from Effects to Causes, and 
from the latter to the Eirst Cause. 

Now the above doctrines do not seem to me to imply the 
eternal coexistence of matter with the Deity, as Frederick the 
Great believed ; any more than it does the coexistence of indi- 
vidual man, to whom matter is made manifest by the means of 
life. Eor the Supreme Intelligence or Deity may comprehend 
in his essential nature the power to create matter, and to create 
separate souls, aad to place them in relation to each other by 
means of the vital principle, without having done so from all 
eternity e parte ante, as it is called. So that both the material 
worlds and their inhabitants may have had a beginning, accord- 
ing to the doctrine of Holy Writ. Thus from God the Eather 
would proceed the Power Creative of the universe and of indi- 
viduals ; while from both would result the manifestation of the 
lifegiving or Yital Power which we* have shown to be that 
which intervenes between the individual mind and matter. 
The universe so created would all be comprehended by the God- 
head ; and this consideration will shew us how man has come 
to be regarded as a microcosm, or little world ; and how he is 
also said to be made after the Image of his Creator. This view 



kii PREFACE. 

of things would, however, not account for the origin of evil, 
loss, and redemption, unless we regarded evil as some imperfec- 
tion inherent in the nature of matter, as Plato seemed to have 
regarded it; but capable of being ultimately overcome by 
mind guided by the Divine influx. These inquiries, however, 
when only prompted by human reason, lead to great absurdi- 
ties. They have prompted philosophers to go much too far, 
and ha\e led to difficult questions touching the possible or- 
ganic nature of the Deity, which are neither conformable to 
humility, nor to reason, which they are much above ; and if 
some deistical philosophers have shown the resemblance between 
the Elementary Powers just described and the Holy Trinity, as 
believed by Christians ; it only shows the close analogy that 
subsists between what pious people believe to be revealed truth, 
and what appears to result from the highest efforts of metaphy- 
sical philosophy. And I think myself with Father Gaerrin du 
Eocher, that, taking every thing into consideration, it appears 
highly probable that all the opinions concerning mind and the 
nature of the Divinity, however diversified they may be in cer- 
tain particulars, have all originated in some antient doctrine 
taught by the Patriarchs and Prophets, and widely disseminated 
all over the world, and mixed variously with human passions 
and defects of judgment. "While the fact that similar opinions 
have resulted from the investigation of all deep thinking men, 
from Plato, or even before him, to Locke, and to the latest 
philosopher of our days, only serves to show how much more 
conformable such doctrines are to common sense than the scep- 
tical writers imagined, who took only a superficial view of the 
subject. 

The Christian Beligion, in fact, embraces the whole that is 
known about the mind ; it is the " Pantologia, " or " All in 
All, " of the Philosophy of Mind : and a correct survey both of 
nature and of metaphysical truth only support its pretensions. 



preface. lxiii 

I shall take a iittle notice now of some of the errors to which the 
scepticomania, or passion for doubting, has led some writers ; 
and of the manner in which they have misunderstood and abus- 
ed Mr. Locke's opinions ; after which I shall show the great 
assistance which the philosophy of Mind has derived, lstly, 
from Phrenology, or the doctrine of the various powers of the Sen- 
sorium, as developed by Gall and Spurzheim ; and, 2dly, from 
Philology, or the Spirit of Language, as illustrated by Home 
Tooke ; and shall then conclude. 

One of the principal errors of some of the followers of Locke 
was the not duly distinguishing between the material organs by 
which the mind manifested itself, and the mind itself. This 
led to the doctrine of the Materialist, who, finding that the 
actions of the brain and external senses corresponded to the 
operations of the understanding and to sensations, hastily con- 
cluded that intelligence was a property of matter, and denied 
the distinct nature of spirit. Now, if these and such like 
opinions are any thing more than idle words, they imply, to 
use common language, that matter thinks. This doctrine, 
though not necessarily atheistical, has a great tendency to lead 
to atheism ; particularly when coupled, as it has been, with the 
still more absurd doctrine of David Hume, that what we called 
Causation is merely the regular conjunction of phenomena. 
But this absurdity will be noticed hereafter. Dr. Priestley, 
who was a firm believer, not only in God, but in a Future 
State, was nevertheless a sort of materialist : and he tried to 
evade the consequences commonly deduced from such doctrines, 
by saying that God could transfer personal identity and con- 
sciousness hereafter to auother body : apparently forgetting 
that the most rational and easy way of accounting for conti- 
nuous and eternal identity, even on the supposition of another 
body hereafter, was to admit the existence of an immaterial 
principle which should survive the destruction of the body 



lxiv PREFACE. 

which it inhabited here. However,, I would not dispute about 
words, nor contend for any thing but a capacity for sensation, 
which all must admit. And then the proofs that this capacity 
is neither the sensations themselves, nor their external causes, 
depends on the doctrine of Cause and Effect already described, 
and not on any quibble about matter and spirit. The doctrine 
of materialism however gained ground with some people: and 
a few false arguments employed by well meaning folks to refute 
it, only served to af.ord it that sort of indirect support which 
always results from the exposure of the fallacy of an antagonist 
argument. It was argued against materialism, that the soul 
could be active when the body was at rest, and dreams were 
given as an illustration of this assertion. But the materialist 
succeeded in overthrowing this plea in a moment, by showing 
that dreams resulted from the spontaneous activity of those 
very material organs through, which the knowledge of external 
objects had been conveyed. Hence the physiology of dreaming 
only seemed to confirm materialism. Some remarkable cases 
of the mental energies being destroyed by blows on the head, 
and by pressure on the brain, seemed to corroborate this doc- 
trine ; and one remarkable case of the effect of concussion, 
which occurred at one of the hospitals, seemed strongly to 
confirm it, in superficial minds. A man fell from the boom of 
a ship in the river on to the deck, and stunned himself. After 
the usual course of bleeding he gradually came to; but when 
partially recovered, he could only talk in the Welch language, 
which was that of his infancy, and he talked also exclusively of 
Cambrian scenes and the recollections of his childhood. In pro- 
portion, however, as his recovery became perfect, he regained 
his English and his memory of recent events : thus the effects 
of the concussion appeared to be that of obliterating the 
recollection of sensations in the reverse ratio of their antiquity. 
We do not know much of the laws whereby in age early 



PREFACE. IXV 

>< 

impressions are vividly remembered, while recent events are 
forgotten ; but it seems referable to the same principle as that 
on which the effects of the blow above described would be 
explained. All this seems very mechanical, I allow, and is 
calculated to delude light thinkers into a belief in materialism ; 
but to those who meditate more profoundly, it will appear that 
the question does not lie between the terms material and imma- 
terial, which would be a mere verbal quibble. The question is 
whether sensible images or ideas, which we will all admit take 
place in material organs, do or do not require a distinct 
sentient Being capable of perceiving them, which I trust 
T have already shown to be both necessary and well proved. 

But the most dangerous paradox was that of Mr. Hume, to 
which I have alluded, which goes to deny the necessity of simil- 
ar causes for the production of similar effects, to reduce causa- 
tion to a mere observed conjunction of phenomena, and conse- 
quently to destroy the proofs that there exist in external bodies 
all those mutual relations and that certain regularity which 
they appear to us to have, by what we perceive ot them in our 
observative sensations. Hume, in spite of all the empty en- 
comium that has been passed upon him, must have been a super- 
ficial observer and bad reasoner, if there were no other proof of 
his imbecility of mind than this. That he built his false philos- 
ophy on some passages in Locke quite misunderstood is evident, 
which is the reason of my introducing it at all to the reader's 
notice. The passages are not worth the trouble of quoting. In 
the " Essay on Cause and Effect/' p. 114, and sequel, Lady 
M. Shepherd has poiuted out and ably refuted them, and he 
who wishes to see how far the vanity of a dull and spiritless scep- 
tic will carry him in trying to prove there is no difference be- 
tween things being together and one's being the cause ol the 
other, may refer to Hume's Essays, and then read Lady Mary's 
refutation of them. The defect was evidently in Mr. Hume's 



kvi PREFACE. 

own judgment, or in that particular native power of the mind 
resulting from a particular organization, whereby we are ena- 
bled to perceive the relation of Cause and Effect. 

Opposed to the Materialism of Hobbes and Hume, is the Idea- 
lism of Berkeley and others, a doctrine equally sceptical, and 
wanting the foundation of true philosophy. As it would be 
impossible to examine all the systems of each writer separately, 
I shall select Berkeley's as the completest instance of the delus- 
ions of the sceptical Idealism that can be adduced. Berkeley's 
argument may be thus briefly stated : he says, since it is ac- 
knowledged on all hands that the secondary qualities of bodies, 
as colour for example, are not in the bodies themselves but in 
the mind, and have not what he calls real existence ; so neither 
can we prove the primary qualities, as solidity, extension, and 
so on, to have any real existence : the only difference between 
the two sets of qualities being, that the primary are perceived 
by means of two or more of our senses, as when we both see 
wi&feel the rotundity and solidity of a globe ; while the secon- 
dary are only cognizable to one sense, as when we see a colour 
to be green or blue, but cannot corroborate it by the touch. 
Now I am ready to agree with Berkeley, that it is not the per- 
ceiving qualities with two or more senses, that proves what he 
calls their real existence, by which he of course means their ex- 
ternal and continuous existence when no longer perceived by 
the mind. For the question of external continuous existence, is 
not affected much by the number of senses which are called into 
action. If it were to depend on that, a question of much grea- 
ter difficulty would arise out of it ; namely, since the visual 
sensation of the colour of the globe, and the sensation of touch 
whereby we perceive its solidity, are two perfectly distinct sensa- 
tions, how come we to refer tbem both to the same external ob- 
ject ? If Berkeley had rightly understood the doctrine of Cause 
and Effect ; and had recollected that dissimilar effects must re- 



PREFACE. 1 



XVU 



suit from dissimilar causes, he would have percived that the 
cause of the sensation green could never be the cause of the sen- 
sation solidity ; and consequently that it must be some other 
power or process of reasoning exercised by the mind, that fur- 
nished the belief of an identical external object capable of exciting 
the essentially different sensations of visible and tangible figure !* 
Experiment has, 1 believe, shown, that a blind man suddenly 
made to see, does not immediately recognize in the coloured 
forms of the furniture, and other objects about him in the room, 
his old acquaintances the tangible chairs and tables, and win- 
dows of his apartment ! The power of identifying them comes on 
by degrees, by a sort of intuitive process of reasoning, which by 
habit becomes too rapid to be perceived. The sensations are 
found to respond to certain anticipations of the mind ; he walks 
nearer and nearer, still feeling his way cautiously towards the 
accustomed place of his tangible ink horn, and grasps it; thus 
gradually perceiving that, as he gets nearer, the inkhorn looks 
bigger, while the objects left behind diminish in size, till he 
holds it, he is made sensible of a sort of correspondence between 
the variation of one class of sensations and that of the other, 
which makes him refer both to some common cause of variation, 
the result of which rational process is tbe sensation which we 
call identity. Now the sensation of externality, or the outward- 
ness of objects, owes its origin to the silent but perpetual oper- 

* With respect to identity, Locke certainly entertained one very erroneous notion, 
as he regarded personal identity to be a mere effect of consciousness. "For," said he, 
"there is a continued identity added to successive atoms of matter." Now to me it 
seems that identity cannot consist in conscious memory, for in this case, a man 
would be the same person that he was when a young child; again, it cannot consist 
in any mater al substance, for the whole body is changed : therefore, as it is some- 
thing independent of these two causes when considered separately, it can- 
not result from them when both together. And hence, it must be dependent on 
some other principle. Analogy, as well as the authority of ages, would rather ascribe 
it to a product of the formative nisns of generation, hy which an individual capacity 
for sensation was created ; and this is, indeed, the more eomformable to common 
•ense a* well as to .Scripture. 



lx\ iii PREFACE. 

ation of a process of ratiocination not very dissimilar. And the 
principal proofs that external objects exist, will be fonnd to rest 
on this — that, as we cannot conceive effects to be their own 
causes, so the effects, which we call observative sensations, 
which are consistent, and correspond at all times to our de- 
mands for their appearance, must either have continuous causes, 
or else some general or final cause must create their particular 
causes anew on every occasion of the effects? Now the strict 
rule of philosophizing which determines the mind to choose the 
simplest modes of explaining phenomena in preference to the 
more complex, does, in this case, direct our reason impercepti- 
bly to believe the causes of our sensations go on existing, whe- 
ther they be or be not in relation to ourselves. And if so, then 
they cannot be m our minds, since our minds do not always 
perceive them, nor in the everchanging sensorium, like the sen- 
sations which they excite; for in this case they would not be con- 
sistent continuous causes : therefore they must be also external. 
If Berkeley had told us merely, that sensation could not be 
like external objects, he would have used a language less ob- 
jectionable : for we cannot with propriety talk of effects being 
like their causes. Effects are rather in determinate relation to 
their causes ; so that when one effect resembles another, their 
respective causes must also have similar resemblance. This 
can be proved by algebra, or the universal science of Signs. 
Tor if Ca is to Ea as Cb is to Eb, then conversely Ca must 
be to Cb as Ea is Eb. Therefore not only do we prove that 
all our observative sensations have continuous and external 
causes, as before shewn ; but we further prove hereby, that the 
external causes have all the same mutual relations as the effects 
have, or in other words, that our sensations really represent to 
us the things of the external world in all their various relations. 
What more is wanted for true knowledge than this, I know 
not. 



PKEFACE. lxix 

But, though this which I have described is a great blunder 
of Berkeley's made in (lie very onset, he is nevertheless guilty 
of several others, which always follow in the train of bad rea- 
soning, just as untoward soldiers will always be the consequence 
of a bad general. Tor Berkeley, after denying material things, 
actually goes on to explain ideal ones by referring them to the 
actions of bodily organs of sense ; forgetting that the senses, 
whether we speak of retina, nerves, or brain, are all a part of 
the external material world.* But I will have done with these 
vague opinions and proceed to discuss Mr. Locke's second and 
third books, and the developement of philology to which they 
led : which in fact threw additional light on the true philoso- 
phy of mind, which it has been my object throughout these 
pages to uphold, and which Locke in fact led to, though he 
never perfectly understood it. 

Mr. Locke having treated, in Books ii, and iii, of what he 
deemed to be complex ideas, philosophers began to inquire what 
complex ideas could be, and whether the complexity, generali- 
zation, and composition of ideas, of which Mr. Locke treated, 
did not in reality relate merely to the terms used to express them, 
that is to words. It is difficult, indeed, to imagine what the 
composition of ideas can mean, since ideas are the actually ex- 
isting sensations of the mind. But if we apply complexity to 
the term, we can easily perceive how it can be general or com- 
plex. The term Garden, for instance, is capable of conveying 
a vast number of sensations to the mind : as ideas of flowers, 
of sorts of fruits, and so on. It was not till the days of John 
Home Tooke, the etymologist of Purley, that this subject was 



* When Berkeley speaks of objects being merely ideas imprinted on the senses, h e 
thereby asserts the existence of the very thing he was trying to overthrow. As my objec 
in this Preface was to exhibit an account of the Philosophy which preceded Locke, and 
that which his writings gave birth to, I shall not pursue the confutation of Berkeley's 
wanderings any further, but refer to the " Essay on an External Universe, 1 ' p. 195 and 
sequel. 



IXX FltKFACB. 

cleared up : but in his Epea Pt-eroenta, vol. i. p. 30, will be 
found a very masterly exposition of the fact, that Mr. Locke's 
Book, though it pretends to be an Essay on the Understanding, 
would nevertheless be better described as a treatise on the Phi- 
losophy of Language. For he has all along confounded words 
or sounds significant, with the sensations of things signified. 
Nevertheless, both his invaluable Essay, as well as the philoso- 
phy to which it led, have laid the solid foundation of the true 
philosophy of Mind, nor would Home Tooke probably have- 
ever written his "Diversions," had not Locke written his 
" Essay " beforehand. 

It is a fact highly corroborative of the philosophy which I 
am upholding, to show, as philology does show, that all lan- 
guage, in its origin and etymological import, relates to modes 
of sensations. Every part of speech is reducible either to a 
Noun or a Yerb ; and, indeed, most nouns themselves may be 
resolved into the past participle of verbs. Nouns substantive 
are the names of definite ideas, which are a particular kind of 
sensations; thus we use the word horse, for example, as well 
for the image of a horse when seen, as when thought of: that 
is, the same word which stands for any given observative sen- 
sation, will always represent also the conceptive sensation that 
corresponds to it. But verbs are the names of motions, of pains, 
of pleasures, and of actions, which are only another class of 
sensations, which may also be either observative or conceptive, 
or may relate to spectral sensations which partake of both : but 
Yerbs do express more than Nouns can, for they imply Cause 
and Effect, or in other words they stand for Things in relation 
to their active state or motion : thus, to run, to row, to fall, 
are all motions, they imply that some cause of change is added 
to certain things, as there must be something runniug, rowing, 
or falling. Again, to strike, to be struck, and so on, imply 
something striking; the term is therefore so far compound. 



PREFACE. lxxi 

Sometimes the particular sensation or noun is added to the seu- 
sation of motion or verb, as where we say, the man falls, water 
runs, and so forth. Now the fact is, that all parts of speech can 
be reduced or traced back to these two primitive classes. 

I have already alluded to the fact, that language expresses 
only sensations : we shall see how we are borne out in this 
assertion : and T will begin by the examination of words which 
seem at first sight to have the most important significations. 
The word Truth is derived of the past participle of the verb 
to trow, or believe, being the same as the word troth, which is 
only the old way of spelling it. Truth is therefore Belief; and 
on this Home Tooke pertinently enovgh observes, in reply 
to Beattie, that there can be no longer any absolute eternal 
truth, than there is eternal and absolute Being to believe it^ 
If this were a solitary instance of a word of great and general 
import being derived from a verb of sensation, we might well 
pass it over; but as there is a correspondence throughout 
among all words expressive of what is called real existence or 
truth, it may be worth while to inquire how it should happen, 
that words used to distinguish what in ordiuary language we 
call true not false perceptions, should, if we regard their 
etymology or actual import only, relate to sensations. The 
fact is as I have observed, that sensations alone constitute the 
immediate object of significant signs, which latter, whether con- 
sisting in letters or in algebra, are available sources of communica- 
ting knowledge, for this reason, that observative sensations are 
found by reasoning, to be in exact accordance with external 
and continuously existing objects. Therefore a real image or 
a true report of any proceeding, is one which will, on the test 
of inquiry, be found to have a corresponding external type. 
But in fact, the conceptive sensations, in as far as they are 
believed by the mind, are etymologically speaking, as true as 
the observative. 



lxxii PREFACE. 

The word Keality, which like the adjective real, comes from 
reor to think, has a similar relation to sensation alone. Thing 
comes from the verb to think, or conversely Thi-nking is the 
being thing ed. Yereor is valde reor to be very much thing ed ; 
and hence Veritas is the very thinking, or universal thought, 
and not the fallacious thought or opinion of any individual. I 
have taken the pains to inquire, and I find that a similar 
etymology is to be found in almost all languages. 

I have already said that phrenology, which is a science 
greatly improved of late years, throws much light on the philo- 
sophy of mind. Phrenology is nothing more than an extension 
or improvement of a doctrine which has been known and recog- 
nized for ages, and which forms a part of the true philosophy 
of mind. For it has never been denied that the mind manifests 
itself by means of material organs, or by what is most properly 
called the sensorium, which comprehends the five senses, all 
the nerves, and also the brain. It has always been known 
that the brain was as much the organ of the understanding, as 
the senses were the media of objective sensations ; and the 
phrenologist affirms nothing more than this ; except that he has 
also asserted, that particular parts or organs of the brain are 
the particular organs or seats of corresponding faculties. Thus, 
according to phrenology, when the front parts of the brain or 
forehead are large, we generally find a powerful understanding; 
when the upper parts are very large, we find strong sentiments 
of benevolence, devotion, hope, and so on ; and the lower and 
lateral parts, when much developed, are an indication of strong 
animal propensities. Now this is a discovery of fact, and not, 
as some vainly pretend, a mere theory : and it is a discovery 
which bears a close analogy to every thing else that we have 
ever discovered in physiology ; the whole of which science is 
founded on the knowledge of the particular functions to which 
particular organs are appropriated. 



PREFACE. lxxiii 

To conclude, I must observe that the analysis I have made 
of Locke's opinions, previous to writing the above, has convin- 
ced me that he had a very strong mind, and a natural genius 
for the study of metaphysical philosophy, which is, after all, 
one of the sublimest of the sciences ; since the knowledge 
of the principles of mind comprehends the elements of all 
other knowledge. Ii constitutes in fact what our forefathers 
called the examination of the interior man, and when cultivated 
with diligence and modesty, is capable of leading to great 
results ; greater, iedeed, by far, I believe, than is usually ima- 
gined. It leads us, too, by examining closely what passes 
within, to recognize the operation of good and of evil principles, 
and thereby paves the way for that knowledge of self, enjoined 
by the noted adage gnollii seauton, which is the beginning of 
wisdom, but which philosophers, in the pursuit of truth, have 
too often neglected for a mere knowledge of exterior things, 
from which alone little is to be learned from whicli we can 
derive profit, as we are eloquently told by S. Bernard in his 
sermon on the Canticles : " Multi multa sciunt, et seipsos 
nesciunt. Alios inspiciunt, et seipsos deserunt. Deum quae- 
runt per exteriora, deserentes sua interiora quibus interior est 
Deus. Sunt namque qui scire volunt, eo fine tan'.um ut sciant ; 
et turpis* cunositas est. Et sunt qui scire volunt, ut sciautur 
ipsi; et turpis vanitas est. Et sunt etiam qui scire volunt ut 
scientiam suam vendant ; et turpis qusestus est. Et sunt qui 
scire volunt ut aedificentur, et prudentia est. Uti ergo cibus 
ingestus, qui bonam non habet decoctionem, malos generat 
humores et corrumpit corpus, et non nutrit ; ita et multa 
scientia ingesta stomacho animae, quae est memoria, si decocta 
igne Charitatis non fuerit, etsi per quosdam quasi artus animse, 
mores scilicet atque actus, transfusa atque digesta, reputabitur 
in peccatum, tanquam cibus conversus in noxios pravosque 
humores. Scienti enim bonumfaeere, et n. f. peccatum est Mi. 



llXlV PREFACE. 

I have been rather prolix in the above analysis of Locke's 
opinions, from the interest which philosophers have taken in 
them of late, and which the perusal of any o( his writings is 
calculated to resuscitate. I shall now subjoin a few anecdotes 
of him, as I proposed, and conclude. 

§ 3. — SOME MISCELLANEOUS AKECDOTES 
OF LOCKE, &C 

In the course of the perusal of several manuscripts in my 
possession, I have hit on several anecdotes and memoranda re- 
lating to Mr. Locke, by his friends and contemporaries, which 
may amuse the reader and serve to illustrate his character; 
some of these I subjoin therefore without further apology. 

Mr. Locke was particularly fond of children, and one of his 
chief amusements, when at Mr. Eurly's, was playing with the 
young folks, in which he spent much time. He was also very 
fond of animals, and particularly disgusted with the cruelty 
practised towards them in too many cases in England. He 
could not fail to have been struck with the great analogy that 
there is between the principles of the reasoning powers of man 
and of other animals ; an analogy which the striking instances 
of sagacity exhibited by some species, is calculated in a high 
degree to enhance. This brings to my mind an anecdote of a 
dog belonging to Mr. Eurly, which is worth recording. This 
animal had gone with his master from London to Eotterdam 
by the packet; on his return to England Mr. Eurly by some 
accident left the poor dog behind him on the quay, proceeded 
to his own house in England, and never expected again to see 
him. Sitting some weeks afterwards by his fireside in London, 
he heard something scratch the door, and on opening it, to his 
great pleasure and surprise, in came the dog, who, it appears, 



PREFACE. lxXT 

finding his master had deserted him, had contrived to get 
aboard another packet, and followed him to London. Mr. 
Taylor has collected a great variety of anecdotes of the sagacity 
of this faithful animal. 

I shall relate one of a cock, which happened near Eotterdam 
daring the stay of my grandfather there, with a descendant of 
Mr. Furly, in the time of the floods, about the year 1740, and 
probably that very year, after the breaking up of the long frost. 
The inundation having broken down several of the dams, rushed 
through the broken dykes, and filled the marshes and farm 
yards of Holland with water, so that in one place the people 
were forced to live a long time in the garrets ; a cock in one 
of the farms, finding his feathery comrades drowning apace, and 
incapable to fly away from the watery waste around him, very 
cleverly got into a large bowl, which had some barley in it, and 
which had stood in the farm yard ; in this he floated as in a 
boat, and having food aboard, lived as comfortably, as Noah 
in the ark, till the waters subsided, and landed him again on 
the grouud. 

Mr. Loeke was subject, as it appears from some of his writ- 
ings, to a trifling disorder of mind, which consisted in the ging- 
ling of some particular verse, which he had heard in the morn- 
ing, in his head all day. He was also subject to hear false 
voices call, and to fancy the sound of distant bells : but what 
haunted him most was the troop of hideous faces which pass- 
ed by his face in the darkness of the night as he lay in bed, in 
pageant rows, and were for ever changing their ugly forms : he 
describes these nervous affections with great accuracy, and in his 
book on the Conduct of the Understanding, has given some 
directions for remedying them. It is probable that most lite- 
rary men, and persons of sedentary and studious habits, are 
subject to these phantoms. I have already described their 
causes. 



K'Xvi PREFACE. 

Mr. Locke does not appear to have been attached to the 
learned sciences, with the exception of metaphysics ; for, though 
some of the greatest discoveries in astronomy and natural his- 
ory were made in his time, we do not find him even so much 
as allude to them. Among the number of remarkable events 
of the kind which took place in Locke's days, may be reckoned 
the prodigiously large comet of 1680, which was observed so 
accurately by Sir Isaac Newton. Nor was the great comet of 
16S8 less remarkable, being calculated, and its return after- 
wards predicted by Dr. Halley, which accordingly took place 
in 1759, and will, according to calculation, reappear in 1833. 
It is remarkable that this, like many other great comets, has 
always been preceded by fierce cold winters; and hot summers 
have attended and followed it, together with some prevalent 
pestilential disease. * Locke, however, took no notice of these 
things. 

For medicine, his original profession, he had very little res- 
pect; indeed, from some ludicrous and sarcastic, and truly 
witty letters of his to his friend, which I have by me, but which 
in these days of absurd refinement one could not well publish, 
he seems to have held physicians and empirics, in no small 
degree of contempt ; and he seems very early in his career to 
have left his calling in disgust, and to have been much occu- 
pied all his life with metaphysics and politics. He appears to 
have had a vast predilection for the Quakers, to have defended 
them against persecution, and to have laboured incessantly, to- 
gether with Algernon Sidney and Lord Shaftesbury, his great 
friends and correspondents, to establish civil and religious liberty 
in Europe. 

It should have been previously noticed, that the letters of 



* See my work on "Epidemic Diseases," 8vo. 6econd edition, p. 170, wherein 1 
have given a catalogue of several hundred Comets, together with the weather, vol- 
canoes, earthquakes, and diseases that have accompanied them. 



PREFACE. ' kxvii 

Locke to Mr. Clarke and Dr. Sloane, are from the originals 

preserved in the British Museum, Sloane MSS. Nos. 4290 
and 4052. 



ALGERNON SIDNEY. 

According to Chalmers's Biographical Dictionary the date of 
Algernon Sidney's birth is not ascertained with accuracy, some 
writers fixing it to 1617, and others to 1622. In either case 
he was nearly sixty when the letters contained in this volume 
were written : they are entirely on business, and prove the pa- 
triot to have been far from inattentive to the affairs of his pri- 
vate fortune, and the circumstances which were likely to in- 
fluence it. 

At the period of his penning, in 1677, the first letter now 
published, his father the Earl of Leicester's death had just oc- 
casioned his return to England, for the first time since the Re- 
storation. It was in the year previous to that great change 
that Colonel Sidney (as he was then called) had been sent by 
the Council of state, as Envoy to Denmark, and had penned, 
in the Album of the University of Copenhagen, the memorable 

distich : 

Maims haec inimica tyrannis 

Ense petit placidam sub liber tat e quietem. 
At the Restoration, Sidney would not personally accept of 
the oblivion and indemnity then generally granted ; but, on his 
father's death, he returned home, and obtained from the king a 
particular pardon. This permission proved fatal to him : for 
from the connections which he had formed in Erance, he was 
induced to oppose strongly the Erenchwar then pressed by par- 
liament — was thus drawn again in the vortex of politics, and 



kxviii PREFACE. 

led to the painful, but immortalizing catastrophe of 1683. 
Algernon Sidney is well known to have possessed a large 
silver cup or goblet, used on convivial occasions, for drinking 
all round. On his death it was bequeathed to Mr. Eurly, from 
whom it descended to the family of the author. As the reader 
may be cuiious to know its form, we have given in the fron- 
tispiece an accurate figure of it, being about eight inches in 
height. It is inscribed : 



EARL OE SHAFTESBURY. 

The letters of the Earl of Shaftesbury record and illustrate 
several events of importance ; and to those interested in the 
proper estimation of his character, they will furnish more infor- 
mation than it is believed they have hitherto possessed. They 
will be found to throw considerable light on his religious senti- 
ments ; and they exhibit him in the amiable attitude of the guar- 
dian and patron of an adopted youth, the success of whose for- 
tunes he endeavours to forward with all the anxiety of a natur- 
al parent; and, at the same time, employs the talents of his 
superior mind in the regulation of young Wilkinson's studies, 
and in the formation of his moral character. By these letters, 
the character of the sceptic Shaftesbury, as he has been usually 
esteemed, will, it is imagined, be considerably vindicated. The 
letters extend over a period of above twenty years, commencing 
in 1691, when he was twenty years of age, and continuing un- 
til near the period when a premature decay terminated his life. 
His lordship was born at Exeter House, in the Strand, Eebru- 
ary 26, 1671 ; and died at Naples, Eebruary 4, 1712-13. His 
visits to Holland, and residence in that country, for a consider- 
able period, are leading features of his history; Mr. Furly, to 



PEEFACB. IXXIX 



whom these letters are addressed, was the principal f lend he 
made there. 



BENJAMIN EURLT * 

The friend of Mr. Locke, was a merchant at Rotterdam, bom 
13th April, 1636, a man of considerable learning, and engag- 
ed with George Pox and John Stubbs, in the publication of 
" A Battle Door for Teachers and Professors to learn Singular 
and Plural, You to Many, and Thou to One :" the Chaldee, 
Syriac, Welsh, and Prench Battle Doors being written by him. 
He possessed a very large and curious collection of books, which 
were sold by auction, at Rotterdam, in 1714, "in sedibus de- 
functi, ^n Platea vulgo dicta Haringvliet." The Catalogue, en- 
titled t€ Bibliotheca Purliana/' contains, among other rare books, 
" Liber Sententiarum ; Pergamino nitide inscriptus, et inter 
duas laminas ligneas compactus ; ipsum Autograplmm scriptum 
est ; et ubique subscriptum manu Notariorum Inquisitionis, in- 
choatse cum anno Christi MCC VII, ad annum MCCXXII us- 
que, Indiciisque indubitatis constat esse authenticum exem- 
plar, ex archivis Inquisitionis Tholosanse depromptum. Ipsse 
Sententise, quantum ex characteris similitudine colligi potest, 
scriptse sunt manu Petri de Claveriis, usque ad Sermonem oc- 
tavum, qui incipit fol. 97. Eeliqua Libri pars ad fin em usque 
scripta est manu Guilikelmi Juliani; sententiis ubique ferine 
subscripsit Jacobus Marquesius ; Liber omnium rarissimorum 
rarissimus, et quautivis pretii." This was bought in, and after- 
wards sold by his second son, John Purly, to Archbishop 
Seeker, for the British Museum. 

* The name has unfortunately been misprinted Furley throughout this volume, the prin- 
ter having been misled by an engraved writing-copy in which it was so spelt. 



IxXX "*"; PREFACE. 

Benjamin Eurly left three sons : Benjohan, born 6th January, 
1681, one of whose daughters, Dorothy, born 2d July, 1710, 
married Thomas Forster, father of the late Edward Eorster ;* 
John, who left a family ; and Arent, who, I belive, died unmar- 
ried. Benjohan and John were merchants ; Arent was Secre- 
tary to Charles, Earl of Peterbourgh, General and Commander 
in Chief of her Majesty's Land Eorces, serving in the Expedition 
against 8pain ; several of the orders dated in the Camp before 
Barcelona, in 1705, are countersigned by Arent Euiley : who 
it is clear, must have left the Quakers before he could have ac- 
compained Lord Peterborough. (See the note in p. 159.) 

On the whole, it is hoped that the Correspondence contained 
in this volume cannot fail to interest the public, particularly at 
a time when the political labours, begun by these powerful 
defenders of the cause of freedom, seem at last likely to be 
brought to a happy close in the enlightened and improving 
age in which our lot is cast. 

BoreJimrij March 31, 1830. 



* This is the Edward Forster, of Walthamstow, to whom I have alluded in the early part 
of this Preface, as being rny grandfather. He descended from the ancient family of Fors- 
ter, formerly of Bamborough Castle, in Northumberland, so frequently alluded to in 
the History of England, and a relation of General Forster, who headed the army in 
favour of the Stuarts in 1715. Mr. Edward Forster married Susanna Furney, descend, 
ed from an ancient and respectable family in Gloucestershire, by whom he had issue 
three sons; my father, whose name was Thomas Furly; Benjamin Meggot, and Ed. 
ward, the joint authors of the Botanical Notices in Mr. Gough's Edition of Camden's 
Britannia, and of several publications on the subject of Botany. 



LETTERS 

OP 

JOHN LOCKE 



AND OTHERS, 



ORIGINAL LETTERS 

OF 

JOHN LOCKE, ALGERNON SIDNEY, 

LORD SHAFTESBURY, 

AND OTHERS. 



LETTER I. ALGERN. SIDNEY to B. EURLEY. 

LEICESTER HOUSE, NOV. 2 9, 1677. 

You will be surprised perhaps, my dear friend, to see a let- 
ter of mine dated from hence, but not at all to find that 
very soon after my arrival I enquired of you, and was very 
glad to hear you were very well in body and estate, not doubt- 
ing but you are far better in that which is more important 
than both. 

I can give you no other account of my return, than that 
my desire of being and rendering some service unto my old 
father, persuaded me to ask leave to come over; and, living 
in a world subject to all manner of changes, easily received 
a grant of that which I could not formerly have obtained, 
but, my father being dead within six weeks after my arri- 
val *, I have no other business here than to clear some small 



* Robert, the second Earl of Leicester, was born Nov. 
2, 1677. 



4 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

contests that are grown between one of my brothers and me 
concerning that which he hath left me, and, if it please God 
to give success nnto my endeavours in composing them, I 
shall have nothing relating nnto this world so much at heart, 
as the desire of retiring from hence, without any thought of ever 
returning, and carrying with me that which may be sufficient 
to purchase a convenient habitation inGascony, not far from 
Bordeaux, where I may in quiet finish those days that God 
hath appointed for me. That I may receive your advice and 
assistance in compassing this, it is good that I let you know 
my father hath left me a considerable sum of money, of 
which some part is in ready coin, and more in such hands as 
I think will readily pay it: and my intention being to send it 
over seas as it comes in, that it or part of it may be more 
ready to employ in such a purchase as I hope to make, I 
would willingly know where it would be safe, and in the mean 
time yield me a reasonable increase. I know few that und- 
erstand such matters better than you do, and none that I can 
trust so much; wherefore I desire you to let me know your 
opinion of this matter, and particularly whether the exchange 
from hence unto Holland be now favourable unto me or not, 
and whether I shall have more for my money, if I send it 
immediately to Paris or Bordeaux, or sending it first to you 
draw it to Paris when I shall have occasion to use it. You 
will oblige me, if you let me know your thoughts of this as 
soon as you can with convenience, 

Your truly affect, friend, AL. SYDNEY. 
To B. Furly, Op den Scheepsmaker's Haven, tot Rotterdam. 



1677] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 5 

LETTER II. SIDNEY to EURLEY. 

DEAR FRIEND, LON. JAN.29 [1677 8] 

Yours of thel 8th of this month, new style, came not to my 
hands until the 26th according to the old style, which for a 
while had made me doubt the miscarriage of mine, wherein 
I had enclosed the letters of exchange; which being safe, all 
is well as to that point. The reasons, that had persuaded me 
to think of passing the rest of my life in the place mentioned 
unto you, I do verily believe to be true, and how weaksoever 
man is, he doth not ordinarily run into great mistakes, when 
he hath time and opportunity to examine the matter he is to 
judge of, and no passion to sway him; and I am sure I am ex- 
emptedfrom the last, as I am that I have had sufficient leisure for 
the first. I hear, as well as other men, that which is said con- 
cerning the war, and think it no hard matter to learn as much 
as most other, or perhaps I may say, as any know, and yet 
truly I am no ways able to give a judgement whether we shall 
have war or not. True it is that the king, in his speech yester- 
day to the Parliament, did speak of it as a thing not to be 
avoided, and yet from his demands for the carrying it on hav- 
ing been so vast, that the nation, as is thought, can hardly bear 

• 
the charge on the one side; and the discovery, what hath been 

easily made, that the thing itself is not pleasing to the parlia- 
ment and people, was believed, on the other; some, that are 
thought to understand this business well enough do think 
that all will end in a good peace, or at the least a truce, that 
will in the end certainly produce it. I am exceedingly pleased 



6 LETTERS OE LOCKE [A.D. 

with the acquaintance yon have given me occasion to begin 
with your friend, and will cultivate it as well as I can. I am 
Your truly affect, friend. 

LETTER III. SIDNEY to EURLEY. 

DEAR FRIEND, LON. APR. 3, 13, 1678 

I did not fail to let you know,as I remember, by the first 
post, after I had received the bills of exchange you sent me, 
that they were come safe unto my hands; but by what 1 learn 
from your friend and mine, William Penn, I find my letter 
miscarried, and therefore am obliged again to tell you that 
all goes well as to that point. I had the first bills; John 
Swinton had them accepted, and I presume they will be paid 
in due time, but I never had the second. I think I may have 
occasion within tins fortnight of sending you some more money 
if you have any way of employing it, and might make it two or 
three thousand pounds between this and midsummer, if I were 
encouraged; but confess I cannot ground much as to the ways 
of employing it, by any assurance lean gain of war or peace; for 
I am as much in the dark as ever, in as much as concerns that 
matter, but whereas the most important point, three months 
ago, seemed to depend upon the resolutions that should be ta- 
ken here, I now incline to believe it will rather be determined 
in Holland; for, if true, as is here reported, that the States 
seem very averse to the continuance of the war, either through 
the secret negociations with the Erench, antient and new jeal- 
ousies of the two Houses of Stewart and Nassau, or other rea- 



1677] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBUBY, &c. 7 

sons, so as not to enter into the alliance lately made by Yan 
Conningham, and to resolve npon peace, which if they do, the 
rest of the Confederates must yield, and make it as well as 
they can; and, if yon find this to be the state of things in the 
place where yon are, yon may look upon peace as a thing cer- 
tain, and order your affairs accordingly; and the contrary if you 
find the contrary; so, as my opinions must entirely depend 
upon these iffs, I cannot go farther. 

The Earl of Pembroke was yesterday tried for the death 
of Cony; six of the peers found him guilty of murder, eighteen 
not guilty, and about forty found him guilty of manslaughter, 
which sentence stands. * 

Your friends seem to have succeeded well the last week, 
before the Committee of the House of Commons, as to being 
distinguished from papists, and it is hoped that if the House 
sit long enough to perfect that business, they will find ways of 
exempting them from the penalties of the laws made against 
those that in no degree resemble them; never the less I find 
many Parliament men very bitter upon them in private con- 
versations, as I think without knowing why ,and therefore per- 
haps the more I desire you to let me know by the first your 



* The murdered was Nathaniel Cony, whom the Earl 
struck with his fist, and otherwise assaulted, on February the 
4th, and death ensued on the 10th. The fellow escaped punish- 
ment by pleading his then privilege of peerage; he died in 
1683. 



8 LETTERS OF LOCKE, [A.D 

opinion as to the present ways of employing money, for myEa- 
ther hath left me some at interest, which I call in,no ways li- 
king it; and if I live npon the main stock, it will soon come to 
nothing. You mnst also have a consideration for yourself, 
and I desire to know how you will have it. 

I am, 

Your truly affect, friend, 

AL. S. 

LETTER IY. SIDNEY to EURLEY. 

DEAR FRIEND, LON. AUG. 9, 19, 1678 

That winch hath fallen out of late at Mmeguen, is, as I 
presume, so well understood by you, that if you know we were 
well enough confirmed before hand to be confident it would 
be done, I need give you no other reason for remitting no mo- 
ney at present, for the only advantage that was expected being 
that the exchange would fall, if there were a war, I could not 
but think that if the peace were made, as I did believe it would 
be, the exchange would still rise; so, as I could not have my 
money back again but with as much loss, I had rather it 
should he idle than send it upon such terms. The greatest busin- 
esses now in Europe depend upon your neighbours' resolutions; 
for if they adhere to the treaty signed, I am confident the 
peace will be general in this part of the world, till some new 
troublesome heads start up to disturb it, and no man I think 
can express or conceive thetroubles that will arise on all sides, 
if the contrary fall out. We that are here, and quiet-minded 



1679] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 9 

men, hope the best, and do not see what is hkely to bring on 
the contrary; but the world is governed in such a manner that 
the most unprobable things are those that often fall out, and 
we can be sure of nothing but what we do already see. I think 
in a few days to see our friend William Penn in his own 
house and shortly after to return again hither. Pray do not 
forget to buy me the best and warmest Indian gown that you 
can find, which. I presume will be had at Amsterdam. Per- 
haps you may at the same place hear of that spirit of cinnamon 
that you sent me once into Prance, and I should be glad to have 
as much more now, if I could have that winch is right and 
good, but 1 hear there is knavery in that business as well as 
in many others, and the way of sending the last with oil on 
the top was good to preserve it, but I never found a way so 
to take it off, but it mixed with the spirit, and spoiled the 
taste, smell, and operation. 
I am 
Your most truly affect, friend, 

A. S. 



LETTER V. SIDNEY to FURLEY. 

[extract] jan. 31, 1678 — 9. 

We are here full of expectations of what the new Parlia- 
ment will produce, if it sit, but that is very uncertain. It is 
generally thought, men will be chosen every where that are 
averse to the Court, but some think those may come in, who 
are more favourable to nonconformists, but 1 do not, seeing 



10 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

the same spirit still rales, that is as full of bitterness towards 
them as ever. 
I am, 

your most truly affect, friend, 

A. S. 
to BEN. EUBLEY. 

LETTER. VI SIDNEY to EURLEY. 

dear friend, London, Mar. 9, 1678 — 9. 

I am in some haste and have time only to tell you I have 
received the bills of exchange, and they are accepted. The 
rates were somewhat otherwise than here we thought the 
exchange had been, and if you found some extraordinary 
momentary accident,it might have been kept until another 
post, or sent by the ways of Hamburgh or Paris, as I told 
you. There is a small remainder of account that may be sent, 
with that which you are to receive upon the two bills I know 
you endorsed, which I did forget when I sent you the first, 
I am 

Your truly affect, friend' 54 '. 

to BEN. EURLY. 



"^This Letter is thus indorsed, in an unknown hand, proba- 
bly by Mr. Eurley: " This Letter was writ with the own 
hand of that Honorable patriot Colonel Algernon Sydney, who 



1679] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 1L 



LETTER. YII SIDNEY to FURLEY. 

DEAR FRIEND. LONDON. MARCH 23. 1678 9 

I am not like your other correspondents, so busy in hun- 
ting money that I could not have leisure to write to you of 
matters: the truth is, letters are so often opened, that no man 
in his senses will write any thing that is not fit for the pub- 
lic view, and that which is so, every man sees in the public 
papers. 

I make no doubt but the proceedings of this parliament amaze 
all people abroad, and believe every day will produce some- 
thing new beyond what you have heard. Yesterday, the Lords 
appointed the Black Rod to take the EarlofDanby into cus- 
tody, who immediately went to his lodgings at Whitehall, 
to seek him, but found him not, and I believe he will 
think it a point of prudence not to appear. The King's pardon 
is found defective in every point, but though all the forms 
had been observed, the House of Commons doth not acknow- 
ledge that it could exempt one impeached by them from 
being brought to justice. It is said, he shall b3 attended if he 

fly- 



was made a sacrifice for his country by Charles &, and his 
mercenary Ld. Chief Justice Jeffreyes. " 



12 LETTEES OP LOCKE, [A.D. 

I believe the next work will be concerning Lauderdale, and 
that never men were pitied in their fall less than they will be. 
The business of G. Eoberts is certainly naught in all extre- 
mity, and the reputation Mead and Osgood had in your to- 
ciety will make it prove of more prejudice unto the whole, than 
the gain they make can be of advantage unto themselves. All 
that I can now expect is by W. Penn his interposition to get 
my money with the loss of three or four score pounds, and 
to be paid I know not when. 

Yesterday Mr. Eoot met me, and desired when I writ next 
unto you, to mind you of the book, which was hoped might have 
been printed before tins time. I see he and others are of 
opinion it might now be done here, the Act for restraining the 
press being expired; and the care he would take to oversee the 
press might abate the expense, and thinks the paper that was 
bought may be put off with little or no loss. I am, 
Your truly affect, friend, 

AL. SYDNEY. 

LETTER VIII. SIDNEY to EURLEY. 

LONDON, MAY 14, 1679. 

The mares that I desired of you were for the Earl of Es- 
sex, and he still desires them, if you have a friend that will be 
careful in having them well chosen. I confess myself surprised 
to hear your friend speak of 800 guilders for each of them: 
I have had as good as I think the country ever produced, which 
did not cost above so much the pair; nevertheless I do not in- 



1679] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 13 

tend to stint yon in the price. He desires to have those that 
are very fine and good. I make no donbt bnt you will choose 
a man that shall do it faithfully, and when it is done, you may 
draw a bill of exchange upon me for the money. I do not 
find that things go so ill as is thought, though the intention 
may be as ill at can be imagined. 

We presume the parliament on Monday will be again pro- 
rogued until the beginning of July. 

The Court is at Windsor, and the King comes hither on- 
ly once a week to be at Council; for that end he was here one 
Wednesday; and, returning in the evening to Windsor, he 
was in the night taken with a great shivering, which in a jea- 
lous time gave many various thoughts, but it is believed only 
to be an ague, and the fit went off yesterday by noon. I am 
Your truly affect, friend. A. 8. 

I desire to have the mares as soon as may be, to have them 
covered this year. 

BEN. EURLY. 

LETTER IX. SIDNEY to EURLEY. 

DEAR FRIEND, LON. OCT. 15, 1679. 

The three mares arrived at London on Wednesday, and 
were brought hither yesterday. Though they had been twelve 
or fourteen days at sea, and are very weary and weak, I make 
no doubt but they will be soon recovered, and I make no- 
thing at all of it; but I could have wished there had been a 
little more care taken in choosing them, for they are indeed 



14 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

very ordinary ones, and I have seen better rendered at Lon- 
don, without any charge at all, at forty pounds the pair. It 
is not to much purpose to bid me stay till they are in flesh be- 
fore I give my judgment, for the beauty consists principally in 
their heads and necks, which is best seen when they are lean- 
est. I know not what will be accounted for their passage,butsuch 
as are versed in those matters say it had been as good to have 
expressed in the bill of lading, the sum that was to have been 
given. We are here in the strangest confusion that I ever 
remember to have seen in English business. There never was 
more intrigues, and less truth. The King hath been extreme- 
ly pressed to send away the Duke, but no resolution is yet 
taken. The approaching session of Parliament is like to be very 
turbulent, and none less than a prophet can tell what will be 
r-the issue of it. Things are so entangled, that liberty of lan- 
; guage is almost lost; and no man knows how to speak of any 
thing, lest he that is spoken unto may be of a party contrary 
unto lrhn, and that endeavours to overthrow what he would 
set up. This shews we are in the dark! perhaps a few days 
may give us light. I am, 

Your truly affect. Eriend. 
to BEN EURLY. A. S. 



LETTER X, SIDNEY to EURLEY. 

A PROPHECY OF ST. THOMAS THE MARTYR. 

The Lily [Kings of Erance] shall remain in the best part 
and enter the land of the Lion, Holland wanting all help 



1679] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, 15 

because none *** of his own kingdom shall with their teeth 
tear his skin, and shall stand in the field amongst the *** of 
his kingdom. Erom above the son of man, king of England, 
shall with a great army parting the waters carrying in *** 
beasts whose kingdom is in the land of***, be feared through 
the world. The eagle shall come from the east part with his 
wings spread above**** with a great multitude of people to 
help the son of man. That year castles shall be left desolate, 
and great fear shall be in the world. And certain parts of the 
Lion then shall be**** many kings, and there shall be a de- 
luge of blood. The Lily shall lose his crown, with which the 
son of man shall be crowned and four years following there 
will be in the world many battles amongst the followers of 
faith, the greatest part of the world shall be destroyed, the 
head of the world shall fall to the ground, the son of man 
and the eagle shall fight and then there shall be peace over 
all the world and the son of man shall take the wonderful 
sign and pass to the land of promise.* 



* 1 found this " Prophecy of Saint Thomas the Martyr" 
among Sidney's papers, and in his handwriting. Mr. Eurley, 
from whom these papers came into the possession of Mr. E. 
Eorster, my grandfather, writes under it as follows : 

"This was sent tome, Benjamin Eurly, by Algernon 
Sydney from MontpeUier in Erance in the year 1686 in his 
own hand writing. I caused to be printed in Dutch and Eng- 
lish 23 years afterwards. — Benjamin Eurly." 

I have never seen a copy of tins prophecy, as printed by 
Eurly; nor can I give the reader any information concerning 



16 LETTERS OE LOCKE [A.D. 

LETTER XL JOHN LOCKE to EURLEY. 

26 December (1686). 
After my hearty commendations of the sheep to your memo- 
ry, these are to acknowledge that I am indebted to you for 



it: but I extract the following from Vol. II, page 247 of 
vita sancti thom^e cantuakiensis a most valuable collec- 
tor of original Latin documents lately published by my friend 
Dr. Giles : " Anno a creatione mundi sex miUibus 

quingentis LXXXYII annis, Lilium regnans in nobili par- 
te mundi movebitur contra semen leonis, et veniet in terram 
leonis, et stabit in agro inter spinas regionis ilhus. Tunc 
filius hominsi veniet ferens tres feras in brachio, cujus reg- 
num est in terra lunee. Cum magno exercitu transibit aqu- 
as, et ingredietur in terram leonis carentis auxilio, quia bestise 
regionis sua? pellem suam dilaceraverunt. Illo anno veniet aqui- 
la a parte orientali, ahs extensis sub sole, cum multitudine pul- 
lorum suorum, in adjutorium filii hominis. Illo anno multa cas- 
tra destruentur: terror raagnus erit in mundo; et in quadam 
parte leonis erit bellum inter plures reges. Ilia die erit dilu- 
vium sanguinis et lilium perdet coronam, de qua postea filius 
hominis coronabitur. Per quatuor annos sequentes fient in 
mundo prcelia multa inter f idem tenentes, et major pars mun- 
di destruetur. Caput mundi erit in terram declinatum. Sed 
filius hominis cum aquila prsevalebit. Tunc erit pax in toto 
orbe terrarum et copia frugum. Et tunc filius hominis ad- 
mirabile signum sumens transibit ad terram promissionis, quia 
primo causa3 promissa tunc adimpleta permanebunt. Aquila 
est imperator: Eihus hominis est rex noster: Lilium est rex 
Erancise: Leo est dux Burgundionum et dictus rex noster ha- 
bet dictam aquilam cum ampulla. T.E. 






1686] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 17 

two long, two kind, and two pleasant letters. Connt not this, 
as if yon had been lately at the Hague, for six, when I mean 
but two in all. 

I find by yours of the 23rd, that our thoughts chime as well 
at a distance as when we are together; and that you and I were 
thinking and writing of our Commissioner about the same 
time. If when the fellow's head ran against Jhe post, good wits 
jumped, what wits, I pray, are we both, whose heads run at the 
same time against the same post? Think not that I use the term 
post here, with any the least design of derogating from the 
work of our author: for methinks all authors may for some qua- 
lity or other be termed post, some for their uprightness, some 
for their stiffness, and others for some other qualities that shall 
be nameless. 

Another thing I observe from that letter is, that the quick- 
er a man writes the slower others read what he has written; this 
being a remark that may concern the writers of books, as well 
as letters, you may do well to put i nto our next letter of ad- 
vice to our learned anthor. And now I come to the parts of that 
letter itself, and therein I shall begin with the latter end first, 
by a figure of elegance, called hysteronproteron, a certain sort of 
leapfrog of use among the learned, whereby they can, when the 
matter in hand so requires, make a Bishop, as grave as he is, 
who appeared not on the stage till Ch arles the Fifth's days, 
leap over the heads of all those who lived before quite as far as 
to Charlemagne. He that can do this , I think, may well de- 
serve the reputation of a good jumper. 
Could you be so silly as to imagine that you could subdue our 



18 LETTERS OF LOCKE, [A.D. 

Doctor Colonel with a paper popgun, though charged to the 
muzzle? To which side pray did you apply your battery? Did 
you expect to penetrate the warrier side on winch the sword 
hangs, or the learned side, armed with an inkhorn? Had you 
made the reflection you ought, you must needs have conclu- 
ded him 

In warlike scuffle most audacious, 
And with his pen most pervicacious.* 

Is it possible it should enter into your mazard, unless 
it have a crack in it; that you should take in an ancient mo- 
nument of prowess, that has so many times stood the 
brunt of pen and pistol, and can still, without flinch- 
ing, bid defiance to all your rhyme and reason, and that he 
should surrender himself to your bare summons? 

Could you expect that a man that will not give himself 
for the washing, should sit still and let you pull his skin 
over his ears, that you might make a new man of him? 

Authors, I mean Colonell authors, at the head of their 
parties, as easily part with their skins as with their styles, their 
ways of reasoning, or the least of their assertions. The madness, 
wherewith you expected to work such a miracle, deserves a 



* This part of the letter evidently alludes to some of 
those numerous writers on the subject of heretical Christianity, 
who swarmed in the time of Locke, in England and in 
Holland, and who were often the founders and supporters 
of new and fantastical sects. 



1686] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 19 

dipping, and no doubt the Colonel, who is expert at it, would 
do you this kindness. But whether, when he had you under 
water, he would not clap his hand upon your head, and, ac- 
cording to the method of his brother Doctor of Scotland, 
keep you there till he were perfectly assured of your being 
tamed, I leave you to consider. 

In the middle of your career with your man of war or 
man of God, (choose you whether; ) you bring me into the 
broil, and require me to answer concerning the Directory, 
whether guilty or not guilty? Truly, friend, having always 
thought that travelling to Heaven by a Directory was even as 
reasonable as to sail to the Canaries by a land map, I have 
not much made use of these waywisers, and so may be excused 
if I say nothing to your so peremptory demand. But this, 1 
think, I may say safely upon the matter between you and your 
author, that, whether or no, according to the Directorian 
scheme, the water of Baptism washes away sin, our diver will 
be nevertheless in the suds, the argument you use sticking 
still as fast as birdlime.* 

That sixteen or seventeen false quotations may pass amongst 
so many hundred good ones is spoke, methinks, like an old 



*This letter is quite in Locke's style of goodhumored ban- 
ter, and seems directed against some attempt of Mr. Eurley, 
who advocated the cause of the people of the " Lanteme," 
probably Quakers, against some Baptist, as it would seem, 
of those times. I have by me a collection of very curious tracts 
of the Quakers, of the period to which this letter refers, 



20 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

soldier; but, if he were now a commander in England or Erance, 
I am afraid it would go hard with him for false musters, and 
the greatest part of his regiment would be found to be but mere 
men of clouts, that, amounting to a great number in shew at a 
distance, would amount to a very few when it came to a close 
engagement. 

But to leave him and come to the Irish, which, methinks, 
is much the better understanding. I am very sorry, when you 
were advanced so far, that you were hindred from coming to 
a conclusion, for you went on very steadily, and that track you 
were in must needs have brought you to the very center of 
the matter; when you see him next, I hope you will remember 
where you left off, and beginning from thence again take the 
two or three remaining steps, which are as many as need, to 
lead your man to Pisgay or a precipice. 

You wish me with you, and desire I should make haste, 
and so do I too, but I doubt whether you would be of the same 
mind if you knew one of my reasons. A cask of rum, an 



some bearing the most whimsical titles, according to the fash- 
ion of that age. By these I find that a perpetual paper war was 
carried on between this then increasing fraternity, and other 
sects. The Quakers seem, however, to have been shamefully 
persecuted at that period by the Church of England; and so 
great was the fear of liberty of Conscience, that the poor harm- 
less Eriends were fined and imprisoned for the exercise of their 
religion, more perhaps than any other sect in the country and 
that too at a time when the pretended right of private judge- 
ment was most vaunted. 



1686] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 21 

hogshead of cyder, and, without doubt, every now and then 
a bottle of wine, or a zopie among us, for a more effectual reme- 
dy against phlegmatic humors and rainy weather; tins, I sus- 
pect, in my absence will make brave work, and heresy will rise 
up apace in the Lanterne when so watered, and the mischief 
is I cannot find any one to make my deputy overseer. Our 
old master and you will, I know, be at it with t'other glassie, 
and our mistress, though she will not partake, yet will stand 
by, clap her hands, and encourage you to it; for my part I 
think I were best make Arent my_ vice governor, who may 
often repeat to you his wil ghy wel laeten. 

I see not that you need be so much troubled about the 
ducks, how to keep them; 'tis but letting the tide come into 
your pack-house, and there will be a pond of course, and water 
enough; 'tis but now and then throwing in a little meat to 
them; pray, when you send them, let the folk know the pains 
I have taken to procure them, and how often I have preached 
to, rallied, and dunned the poor little Scotchman for them, so 
that I know not whether by persecution of him I have not 
driven him at last to steal them; but that is no matter, as long 
as they have them: the ducks will neither breed nor look the 
worse for that. 

I am troubled about poor Colhans. The book, called rec- 

UEIL DES DIVERSES PIECES CONCERNANT LE QUIETISME &C . I 

have got for you, and thought to have sent it to day, but it 
being misfolded,it must be a little reformed by the bookbinder, 
and so stay till next time. 



22 LETTERS OE LOCKE &c. [A.D. 

Pray remember me kindly to Mrs. Eurly, to our good 
friend, and all the assembly in the Lanterne. The inclosed is 
for my little friend, both as a token of remembrance from me, 
and as an item for him to shew you what you deserve when you 
meddle with your zopies [Pig-tails]. 

I am, dear friend, yours, 

J. L. 

I have just now received the three crevats and a 3rd letter 
for which I thank you; the water both in the Tye and on the 
land side of the town is exceeding high. If it should get into 
the town, I know not but you must come with a boat and 
fetch me from Dr. Guenellon's as soon as you hear it. With- 
out jesting, if this north-west wind continue, there will be 
danger. 

Eor Mr. Benjamin Eurley, 
on the Scheepmaker's Haven, in Rotterdam. 

LETTER XII. LOCKE to EURLEY. 

29 dec. [1686] 
Cato could not make a speech without putting in"Delenda 
est Carthago," nor can I write a letter without putting in 
' 'Let us get rid of the Sheep" And now to your welcome let- 
ter of the 28th, wherein though I find nothing which I 
can deny to be so as you say, yet I cannot approve your 
sending such hard morsels to break an old man's teeth, who, 
I can assure you, has another use of them. Methinks you 
should have let the year have ended in peace, and not have 



1686] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 23 

knocked an old officer in the head with blunt downright truths, 
against the which the art of fencing is not provided. I fear 
this second seasoning you have sent him will spoil his Christ- 
mas cheer, for your ingredients are very strong, and the dose 
something of the largest. What! purge away all the quotations 
of all the three books at once. This will as certainly kill him, 
as it does one swollen with the dropsy to take away all other 
superfluous humors at once, which, though they make the great- 
est part of the man's bulk, yet add no real strength to the 
body. Our champion, covered with so thick a shell of armour 
of quotations upon quotations, (for he was more than " clipei 
septemplicis Ajax,") no doubt thought himself canon-proof. 
But you, wretch that you are, would strip him of all these 
covers, and then set him to combat in cuerpo; no, I thank you, 
his long experience in the art of war has taught him better, 
and he knows what convenience it is to be some way or other 
canon-proof. 

Make sure of it therefore that, do what you can, he will 
not part with them, nor let the next edition dwindle into so 
diminutive a size of bulk and learning as you would have it. 
' Tis as tolerable for a Colonel to appear in the field with 
but three or four soldiers after him, as for a man of reading 
and leader of a party to appear in print without a whole re- 
giment of quotations, whether to purpose or no it matters 
not: the squadron is however full, and the appearance re- 
doubtable; for as to effective, every one cannot distinguish 
betwixt which is a man, and winch a scarecrow. You are a 

sly gent., and in this affair would have made me a party, by 

r 



24 LETTEES OF LOCKE, [AD. 

asking me so peremptorily in your last letter whether guilty 
or not guilty. But whether guilty or not guilty in the case, 
Quid hoc ad Iphicli boves? You must know that tins same 
Iphiclus was a Colonel, and that boves here signifies bulls. For 
the boy was mistaken that thought there were not bulls too 
as well as oxen of men 5 s making. But give me leave to adver- 
tise you that you are a little mistaken, when you think that 
you and I jump so just in our thoughts concerning your author, 
since you think worth the refuting what I think not worth the 
reading. I confess you have pretty well suited him to the 
season; for this is the time for Christmas tales, whose truth 
men never examine. I am very sorry that the harp was taken 
out of your hand when it was so well in tune. I imagine if 
you had been let alone you had made good music. When 
you get him again, be sure by the same degrees to wind him 
up to the same pitch, and then have out the rest of the 
song. 

I have been with Wetstein: he says those books are not 
to be gotten. I asked the names of them, and find that one 
of them is in that collection concerning the Quietists, which 
I intend to send or bring you. If your man of Cork under- 
stands French, tins is for your turn; and if you desire it, I will 
send it by the first, but the fault in the binding is not yet 
mended. 

I am glad that Colhans is safe, and our friend better. As 
a cordial to perfect his recovery, I must tell him that his 
friend Greetz wishes it him heartily; she is in the next room, 
whilst I am writing this, and I intend that, as soon as I have 



1687] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 25 

done, she shall sing the Botterbloem. As to your ducks and 
drink below stairs, I have not now time to enlarge upon those 
matters. Only I must vindicate myself to my little friend Toety, 
whom you must tell that I know he is Loet, and therefore 
that that boy there is Broer Jan, or Broer Benny, but that 
which I send here is Toety to himself. 

I wish you a happy end of this, and an increase of what 
you wish yourself the year that is coming, and so good night. 
I am Your most affectionate friend, 

J. L. 
Eemember me very kindly to Mrs. Furley our friend and 
the young ones, especially Arent. 

1LETTER XIII. LOCKE to FURLEY. 

DEAR FRIEND, 20 FEB. 1687. 

Bank money is here at 4 J : if you can have so much for it 
there, draw on Dr. Peter Gueneillon for 15,000 guilders in 
bank, and make your bill or bills payable at as short view as 
you please; nay, if you cannot get 4| take 4 and f rather 
then fail, for it will be less trouble than to get the bank mo- 
ney sold here, and then draw it in current money thither, 
But pray let me hear from you about it as soon as you can, 
that I may know what to resolve in it; for there is no thing 
that now stays me here but the weather, and graving of the 
plate, which, do what I could, I could not get the graver to 
begin upon till to-day. I press it with all my might, that I 



26 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

may get it done with all speed, so that I may have some co- 
pies of it printed whilst I am here: pray, therefore, send me 
word what number you will have printed and upon what sort 
of paper, for then I will get ink and paper in a readiness to 
have it done, as soon as ever it is graved, and bring both co- 
pies and plate along with me. 

Your story of Master Peter confirms my former opinion 
of the man, and when you so much commended his books, I 
cannot but think of Sir Philip Sidney's two verses 

" And if the man such praise must have, 
What must he that keeps the knave?" 

In good earnest we that lay out our money in books, have 
an ill bargain of it, if we are not to be thought as learned 
as our libraries, and if so, Master Peter is, I think, one 
the learnedest men within some miles of him. I pitied him in 
that part of the story, wherein he could not read your MS. and 
that for a reason which I must tell you, because you would 
not else think of it, and that is, that I found myself very much 
troubled upon the receipt of your last of 18, when I found, 
whatever longing I had to it, that I could not read it; how- 
ever, at last I groped out the meaning of the greatest part of 
it, though there are some words in it still as much beyond my 
reach as the story of the Beguine was beyond your Rabbi's. 
But pray remember (when you write next) the maxim I once 
minded you of before, viz. that letters that are writ quick are 
long in reading. 

Since the Colonel is gone, I am glad with you that our 



1687] SIDNEY, SHAETESBURY, &c. 27 

MS stayed; 'tis something to comfort us in the loss of those 
notable discoveries we might have expected. I wish your he- 
retical pravity and perverseness have^had no hand in this tra- 
gedy. And may I not justly suspect what you call cholic, was 
heart-breaking? I warned you long since what effect such kind 
of dealing might have on an old soldier and author. Pray ask 
our friend what he thinks he will make in his next revolution, 
for in the last he made no small figure in several capacities. 
To be serious, this accident makes me reflect on the folly me- 
thinks it is to pudder ourselves and vex others about questions, 
which I imagine the change of the scene will shew us were 
not worth thinking on. But I will not make a funeral sermon; 
I do not use to preach in my letters, and do least of all intend 
it to you. Give my love and respect to the company in the 
Lanterne. 

I am your very affectionate friend and servant, 

J. L. 
Pray if you can find any one going for England that will car- 
ry a little book of philosophy, but of four sheets, and yet has 
nothing in it of my affairs, do me the kindness to send me word, 
for I am in distress to send one of my Epitomes. It will take 
up no more place than a letter. 

LETTER XIV. LOCKE to FUKLEY. 

dear friend, 30 July, 1687. 

One cannot take amiss the kind mistake of one's friends. 



28 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A J). 

But I should be very sorry to have given any just occasion to 
your wife's misapprehension. Had she been better acquainted 
with my way of living with those I am free with, she would 
have known that silence, when I have no business to write, 
is a liberty I take with none so much as with the friends I am 
most assured of, and with whom I think myself past all cere- 
mony. But, to confess the truth, in your present case I 
think I should have writ sooner, had I not every day expect- 
ed that a letter from England would also bring me with it one 
from you, and that then I should have an occasion to answer. 
Eor I every day went or sent to Wetstein's, with hopes to find 
one there from you. This be sure, I w r as any thing rather 
than sullen; and I was so far from taking any offence, that I 
am not displeased at the opportunity of acknowledging, once 
for all, that I was never any where with more freedom and sa- 
tisfaction. Tins to your wife, to whom pray give my kindest 
remembranee. As for yourself, if I mistake not very much, you 
and I are past these discourses; and therefore let me tell you, 
that how acute, how subtile, how learned soever you are, ' tis 
not you alone have the privilege to pass for a Jesuit; other 
people of lower rank may, I find, sometimes arrive at that ho- 
nour, and, had it not been for an envious Englishman that 
sat at the other end of the boat, who discovered the truth, I 
had in my passage hither gone clear away with that reputation. 
This story is too long for a letter, and must be reserved 
to make you laugh when I come. Only I desire you to arti- 
cle with the Baron that he shall not pervert me when I return 



1687] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 29 

again to his conversation. For being now got to be of the 
most orthodox society in the world, I would not be tainted 
with the least infection of heresy for all the gold our English 
chemist there is like to make. And I make account to die in 
this unspotted reputation would do one as much good as dy- 
ing in St. Francis's own frock. It is very convenient that 
you take care in this affair, for I find the great desire I have 
to return again to the enjoyment of his and your good com- 
pany will not let me be long away. Pray salute him with my 
most hearty and best respects, and be assured that I am, with 
perfect sincerity, 

Your unfeigned friend and servant, 

J. LOCKE. 
Remember me kindly to the little ones, especially to my little 
friend. Bethink yourself if I can do you any service here, or 
for Mr. Van Helmont. I shall be glad of the occasion. 

LETTER XV. LOCKE to FURLEY. 

dear friend, 6th Jan. 88. 

'Tis not to answer your last letter, no more than your last 
answered mine, that I now write to you; but to keep up the 
correspondence, and to save you thirteen stivers, for so much 
the book of the Quietists cost me, which I thought it fit you 
should know before the ship you sent it by went away. But 
now I have begun, I fear it will scarce pass for a letter, if I, 
who have not altogether as much pretence to business as you, 



30 LETTEES OE LOCKE &c. [A.D. 

should not make it a little bigger. Though I can tell you I 
am as busy as a hen with one chick, or our friend with his 
new disciple, I cannot, I confess, but envy you when I consi- 
der you in the posture you describe yourself, with the great fo- 
lio on one side and the diminutive college on the other: and, 
since the mind of man is always hankering after sublime and 
difficult (not to say unintelligible) notions, I am apt to think 
you every now and then lend an ear to that instructive dis- 
course, and leave for a while your processes, condemnations, 
prisons, and executions, to take a little fresh air in those un« 
confined spaces where separate souls wander at liberty. But 
have a care you get no more into the sling of one of these in- 
quisitions than into the dungeons of the other; for I can tell 
you they are both terrible places. In truth I am a little afraid 
of our weeweart brother, that one of these two will be his lot; 
for, if he gets but halfway, his advance will only be into a state 
of darkness and instability, which as I take it is the 'sling*; or 
if he come to a perfect illumination, father Yvor's zeal for the 
Church will catch him, for I dare say that good man is no 
more able to endure any hseretical pravity than the Archbis- 
hop of Tholose himself. The greatest kindness, therefore, you 
can do your Erieslander is to turn him out of doors with all 
speed, and send him to our Coll. Dr. in Ins way home, who 
may take him a little into his cure, for I fancy dipping at this 
time of year is an approved remedy to compose a man who be- 
gins to have his head a little over warmed with these dancing 
sparkling ideas, which the ignorant call' ignesfatui.' The 



1688] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 31 

knight and his lady you say are gone. I am glad the trinkets 
are got again, and the knight is an excellent knight if he has 
left the book behind him; you say nothing of that in your let- 
ter; however, I presume you made use of your time. Bemem- 
ber to send me in your next Blanchardus's name of our Mer- 
curius Coagulatus, and answer my last letter in all the points, 
or else I will conclude you are wholly taken up with the Col- 
lege, and are afraid this new scholar should outstrip you. 

I am glad our friend is so well as to endure so much fati- 
gue; but in these matters he has an admirable faculty of talk- 
ing without much labouring his thoughts. My kind remem- 
brance to him, to Mrs. Eurley, and your young ones. This 
I think is enough for a man who intended only to put in "Item 
for Molino's book, £0. 13. 0," but I am not, you see, so 
good a dispatcher of accounts as you merchants. 

"Necdum finitus Orestes," for the Sheep are not yet in; 
and I can no more write a letter without mentioning them; 
than a taylor can make a doublet without collar and belly- 
pieces; they are the chief stiffening of my epistles. Pray, there- 
fore, when you send them, (for go they must ) remember to 
write three or four lines to Mr. Jo. Elwill, of Exeter, to re- 
commend them to his pastoral care, and tell him that they are 
for Mr. Edward Clarke, of Chipley, by whose order you con- 
sign them to him, and if they arrive not there till near their 
yeaning time, 'twill perhaps be advisable they should travel no 
further this winter. 

You will do well to enquire of Hodder whether he has 



32 LETTERS OF LOCKE, [A.D. 

not a piece of ash for you. Mr. Clarke, I remember, men- 
tioned a good while since that he had sent a piece to Exeter 
for you, and methinks it should be come with this. But per- 
haps the seamen taking it for a collar of brawn, or some such 
Christmas present, ate it and so were forced, finding it some- 
what dry and hard, to drink your cider to help it down. If 
it be so, you have no reason to bethink them your liquor; they 
well deserved it. 

Being hindered yesterday from writing, and fearing the 
same might happen to me again to day, because I am to be 
abroad in the afternoon, I had just made an end of the above 
written, when in came your kind one of yesterday. I thank 
you for your care of the sheep and the name Senexton. As 
to my vessel, to increase your wonder, and put you further 
than ever you were by answering about the dimensions, for I 
see you imagine it a nutshell, I tell you that I was swimming in 
it, moi sixieme, and it would not only have held but carried 
a dozen or twenty more; and now go and break your heads 
with thinking, or your hearts with despair of not discovering 
what it is made of. To Toetie I send this message, that, if 
he continues to be stout, I will bring him nothing, and that, 
when I come, Jantie shall be my friend and he no more. 
For Mr. Benjamin Furley, 
on the Sheepmakers' Haven, in Rotterdam. 



1688] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 38 



LETTER XVI. LOCKE to EURLEY. 

DEAR FRIEND, [AMSTERDAM,] 19th JAN. 88. 

'Tis not the cold weather, that freezing my ringers or my 
inkhorn has kept me so long from answering your kind let- 
ter of the 12th; but the thaw, which making me expect from 
day to day the opening of the water, I delayed writing in hopes 
to send something else with my letter. But since the ice is 
loath to be gone, and that I may not seem colder to you 
than the weather, 'tis time I take hammer in hand to patch 
up this gap in our conversation. I am glad to find you so 
busy in your old mine, from which you get such lusty lumps 
of metal; but I would not have you throw them too hard at 
the Colonel's head, for fear of hurting the brainpan, if they 
should light unluckily in the tender place, for I can tell you 
we authors have all of us a soft place, whieh will not very 
well bear with any thing but gentle handling. I envy your 
employment in that musty manuscript, which you will easily 
allow to be a great deal better than to wait here the leisure 
of drunken workmen, who have so great a reverence for the 
holidays, that they could not till to-day quit the Cabarets, 
the places of their devotion, and betake themselves to their 
profane callings. This attendance I have been obliged to, 
makes me desire you will have a little pity on our Dr. Com- 
missioner; for it costs, as I have already told you, not a little 



34 LETTEBS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

pains and patience to be at any rate an author, and ' tis a 
little uncharitable to tell one who has shot the gulf, that he 
has played the fool to be at all that trouble only to expose a 
cargo of counterfeit wares and tinsel. I confess that pas- 
sage of a child of two years old, which you have met with 
between these wooden covers, is a stick of dry wood, and 
needs more than one dipping to make it pliable to his pur- 
pose, soaking itself, and wreathing as much as you will scarce 
do it. And I fear at last the Albigenses themselves, of 
whom he has made so much reckoning, will prove but here- 
tics, that were nicknamed KAOAPOI, and never knew the 
true way of water purification. I am glad you have found 
something for satisfaction of our friend too. I hope it came 
to light whilst the Erieslander was there, and that he had 
that too away with him in his budget, for the edification of 
the sole Church of Christ in and out of the world, consist- 
ing of about three score and thirteen persons, by which you 
will see that the Church is increased since the time of Egyp- 
tian darkness. The good man is, I perceive, gone away as 
rich as if he had met with King Oberon in one of his high- 
est fits of liberality. Eor, what think you, will it not all prove 
fairy treasure? and when he comes to produce it to open 
view, will not all the glittering gold, he goes home loaden 
with, turn all to leaves? All the good notions our friend has 
put into him, will, I fear, when he has clothed them 
with his own language, look little better than what igno- 
rant people call nonsense. But what had you to do 



1688] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 36 

with your worldly wisdom to mind him of the register 
of births and marriages? What agreement had those dull 
and secular matters either with Iris new acquired illum- 
inations, or with the discipline of a church retired out 
of the world? But you love to put people beside their 
principles, which is usually but little better than to remove a 
child, that has becacked himself, out of the place where, not- 
withstanding that, he sat quietly: whereby you make it be 
taken notice of that he is besh — . 

Did you not know that their patriarch's example was 
proof enough to shew that it was not aways convenient that 
the times and circumstances of such fleshly matters should 
be left upon record, and do you think they have nothing else 
to do than to keep a register when "de Lameron Gods speel- 
en." By this Dutch expression there hangs a story, which if 
you know not already you shall have hereafter. In the mean 
time pray tell my friend Toetie, that I will not change him 
for any other, but he must remember to be soet. I hear peo- 
ple every where grumble as if they suspected this approaching 
summer would be full of bustle; but do you mind your col- 
lections, as I am resolved to busy my thoughts about finish- 
ing my Essay "De Intellectu," et sinere res ire ut volunt; 
which by many years' practice I find to be the best politiques. 
One word of the sheep and I have done with the same, viz. 
that I have bought some seeds that I intended should have 
gone with them, but that very day the frost stopped the 
boats, and I know not how to send them. My kind remem- 



36 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [AD. 

brance and love to all chez vous. I am, yours, 

J. L. 

Well jumped again, for so I see by the beginning of 
tins and yours of the 18th, (which I have received just now,) 
that our thoughts have done without communication. I am 
so often put besides writing by company in the evenings, 
that, having considered how long I had been in arrear to you, 
I resolved this morning, before I rose, to write to you as soon 
as I was up, and so secure myself from farther delay and the 
chiding I had deserved. It proved, it seems, a little too late, 
but I have no reason to be very sorry for it, since your chid- 
ing has been so very gentle. Had I not certain proofs that 
you are pretty good enough in your own nature, I should 
suspect that you handle me thus smoothly with design to draw 
me in to be hereticated by you. The truth is, I find you have 
gone a great way towards spoiling of me already; but if those 
you tell me are the conditions of heretication, I hope you will 
permit me to follow the wise example of those good people, 
and not to send for you to exercise that office till there is 
hopes of dying quickly after. I long to know what new 
gang this is that you have found, which we took for Walden- 
ses, and for that as well as some other lanterne reasons, I 
wish the printers could dismiss me. I am told they will to- 
day begin to work, and then, if you are for a new sort that 
was never yet in the world, I may chance to hereticate you 
upon promise too of good behaviour; though it contain not 
fasting thrice a week, and some other sort of abstinences, to 



1688] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 37 

which perhaps you and every one in the lantern will not so 
easily consent. The Doctor Colonel is I see no changling; 
you may beat him out of Ms old holes as much as you please, 
he cannot but return thither again; rest satisfied and as- 
sured of that, and then deal with him as you think 
fit. I for my part consent he should be any thing but 
a Commissioner again. However, pray get the Groningen 
Catalogue; I hear it is an excellent library, and I will endea- 
vour to find somebody here that may buy for us any books 
there we desire. Such a strange beast as you mention I my- 
self have seen in France; they are called Gimars, and it is a 
very laborious creature. Once more I wish you all health, 
quiet,and mirth, and myself with you. J. L. 

For Mr. Benjamin hurley, 
on the Scheepmakers' Haven, in Rotterdam. 

LETTER XYIL LOCKE to FURLEY. 

AMSTERDAM, 26 th JANUARY, 88. 
DEAR FRIEND, 

Though you southern people of the Maes have so much the 
advantage of the neighbourhood of the sun, that the waters are 
open for the boats from Rotterdam hither, yet we, that lie un- 
der a colder star, are under a longer blockade, and have not 
yet the passage open from hence to Rotterdam. Every day 
since the receipt of your last letter I have sent Syl to enquire 
when the boats go and he has hitherto always brought me 



38 LETTERS OE LOCKE , [A.D. 

back word "not yet;" so that, not knowing when the enchant- 
ment will be over that holds all the water ont of town fast in 
ice, whilst all in the town is open and clear, I send you this let- 
ter to tell you that the book of the Quietists, that you sent for, 
has been ready ever since the receipt of your letter, and will 
be sent with the seeds sometime between this and midsummer, 
but the particular day is not marked in the almanac. 

I am glad you have given up your Colonel. If you hope 
with dint of arguments to make impressions on such men of 
arms, you know not 

Th' impenetrability does environ 
Men that are clad all in cold iron; 

and, therefore you do to my mind much better to apply your- 
self wholly to your old hereticks, and when you have conver- 
ted one of them, or are converted by them, I will then give 
you leave to reform our modern author, and to hope you 
may persuade him not to write upon trust any more; but to 
publish only what he himself can produce authentique proofs 
of. But, if these be the laws you will set us, it will be a 
hard world with us authors; we shall make but poor earnings 
of it, for our books will not be a quarter so big, our quota- 
tions not a quarter so many, nor our learning appear a quarter 
so great, as in the more Christian way of writing, where faith 
supplies knowledge; and would it not savour a little of infi- 
delity in one of the faithful, not to say anything for the truth 
but what he had plain Dunstable knowledge of; and thus to 



1688] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 39 

deprive himself of all that more copious and more ready as- 
sistance that is to be had from believing? 

The roast beef fasting yon have fonnd out, I advise you 
to keep as a secret, till you heretics of the lantern set up for 
yourselves, for it will be a most orthodox prevailing article, 
and work powerfully in those that are preordained to be 
converted. 

The Groeningen catalogue is to be had here, but you 
must pay 15 stivers for it. This, methinks, is not orthodox; 
and therefore I shall abstain from such undue practice, un- 
less you give me order to the contrary. 'Tis the biggest ca- 
talogue I ever yet saw; it has above 600 pages in 8vo, prin- 
ted as close as Heysius's catalogue was. I have borrowed one 
of a friend, who has also promised me a commissioner that is 
not an author, if I have a mind to have any of the books 
bought for me. 

As to the news you send me, I know nothing can be 
done, after such a reprimand and such misdemeanors, but to 
put in Marc Coleman's petition. If you think I have not discre- 
tion enough to govern myself, 1 desire discretion may be put 
into me. I find it not at all talked of here. I have set 
your friends in England a gaping for the ducks, as well as 
mine for the sheep, therefore you were best look to it: but not 
half so mnch as a certain writer from Rotterdam has set seve- 
ral a gaping about a pardon, for 'tis not he alone whom you 
mention in a former letter, but here are others too that are at 
a loss and inquisitive about it, to whom it would be accept- 



40 LETTEES OE LOCKE, [AD. 

able to receive some further and more particular notice. Pray, 
therefore, if you know anything more concerning that matter 
send me word in yonr next. 

If yon had asked me where the best chocolate is to be 
got in London, I should answer you, where the Devil had 
the friar, even where you could find it, but to Joanna and 
Eachel you must say that I had formerly a friend there, that 
made it very well, and just as I directed; but now she is dead 
I could no more tell where to find the best than the greatest 
stranger there. Pray tell them that I am sorry I cannot do 
them the service I would in this affair. 

As to your yellow copies, I have been seeking out the 
best way I could find to furnish you. After several gravers 
talked of, that which I thought the most ready and best way 
was to speak with one Hogeboom, who is both a writing-mas- 
ter and the graver of his own copies, whereof Syl tells me you 
have a book; liim I went this afternoon to speak with, but 
our directions having failed us which were given to find 
Iris house, the rain, after having wandered and enquired 
some time in vain, beat me off. Syl, whom I left to search 
further, brings me word he has found his house, that the 
man has been sick these eight days and is not to be spoken 
with. In your next, send me word whether you would only 
have some copies of an old plate, if I can light on one to our 
purpose, or whether you think it better to have one graved 
on purpose and what bigness you would have the letters of. 
So much to vours of the 21st. 



1688] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &o. 41 

To what you demand in yours of the 19 th, I cannot tell, 
nor learn where your friend Petrus Johannis found the change- 
ment of that text in St. Matthew; but, if you desire to know 
where proofs are to be had of several alterations that have 
been made in the Gospels, you need but look into "Defense 
des Sentimens de quelques Theologiens, &c. p. 535, &c. The 
book is about the bigness of Lily's Grammar; you will find it 
amongst the books in my chamber, bound in vellum. But, 
concerning your manuscript, pray tell me how long shall you 
have the keeping of it; for I must have my time with it too, 
therefore part not with it till I come. I suppose to-morrow 
there will be one sheet printed of my works, and there being 
but four in all, I hope, now their hands are in, they will go 
on roundly, and not make me wait mnch longer. I fear you 
mistook concerning the name of our Mercurius Coagulatus, 
in Blanchardus. I have borrowed his praxis, and found his 
Xenexton, which is the same with Van Helmont's, being an 
amulet against the plague, consisting of the powder of 
toads. 

Poor Wetstein hopes, by your assistance, which he begs, 
to have the intercession of the Governor of Pensylvania to 
help him out of the briars. His case you will find here in- 
closed. He begs you would by this Tuesday's post write to 
him to give his helping hand, and send your letter to Ins bro- 
ther, according to the address you will find in his paper here 
inclosed, who may deliver it, if there be occasion, to our 
friend W. P[enn,] and inform him in the present state of the 



42 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

affair with, all the circumstances. It seems a very hard case 
upon him as he has stated it, and I know you are always 
ready to do all the good offices you can for every body, 
though I conclude this will not fare the worse with you for 
my appearing in it; besides that this hinders the commerce of 
letters. 

I wish all in the lantern well, and am your assured friend, 

J. L. 

Eor Mr. Benjamin Eurley, 
on the Scheepmakers' Haven, in Rotterdam. 



LETTER XVIII. LOCKE to EURLEY. 

DEAR FRIEND, 2 FEB. 88. 

You need not have made any apology for the three words 
of Dutch you put into your letter, for I think I understand 
them right enough when I understand by them that you 
would say you have no hellebore strong enough to cure our 
Commissioner. "Laat ons, Laatons;" there is a Dutch Row- 
land for your Oliver, to shew you that I am a proficient. The 
judges you mention follow not Pontius Pilate's pattern of 
" quod scripsi, scripsi;" how much the uprighter you will 
think them for it, lies in your breast. 

Coomans is not in town. However, I have found a graver 
which I think will do our business, and he tells me of a book- 
keeper in town who writes better than that writing master 
I was with, whom we may get to write a copy as we will, 



1688] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 43 

and then he will grave after it. The whole charge, as far as I 
can learn, will be about five ducatoons; and. then the plate 
will be yours to do with it as you believe,and then the copies 
being for your own use, yon may print the paper on both 
sides if you please, it will only cost so much an hundred for 
printing. The plate will be of the size of a quarter of a sheet 
of paper of tins bigness, leaving room for a margent; just of 
the size as are the books childern usually write in. 

The design I have made of it is this: 

lo. On the top to have the alphabet in common letters, 
such as a, b, c, &c. 

2o. A little space being left between, to have twenty-four 
proper names, each beginning with a great letter, * and the 
whole name written in a little bigger hand than the alpha- 
bet, whereby we shall also have the twenty-four great letters, 
which His not necessary children should write, before they can 
write the little letters well, and begin to write join-hand. 

3o. After these proper names I intend some useful sentences 
writ in the same size with the first alphabet. These shall fill up 
the rest of the page. If you will have a plate, and like my 
design, send me in your next the size of the letters you would 
have the first alphabet of, and I will get it executed the best 
I can. 



* A copy, with the signature " John de Broen, sculp." 
has an alphabet of names, taken in part fromMr. Em-ley's 
family, followed by the letters of the alphabet and figures: 



44 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D 

Send me also your eldest son's name, as yon write it. I 
commend very much the discretion of Mrs. Eurley that she 
would not give him precipitates, lo. Because physic is not 
to be given to children upon every little disorder. 2o. Physic 
for the worms is not to be given upon bare suspicion that 
there may be worms. 3o. If it were evident that he had 
worms, such dangerous medicines are not to be given till 
after the use of other more gentle and safe remedies. If he 
continues still dull and melancholy, the best way is to 
have him abroad to walk with you every day in the air; that 
I believe may set him right again, without any physick; at 
least, if it should not, "'tis not fit to give him remedies, till 
one has well examined what is the distemper, unless you 
think, as is usually done, that at all hazards some thing is 
to be given, a way I confess I could never think reasonable, 
it being much better, in my opinion, to do nothing than to 
do amiss. I hope to see you now in a short time; and, if he 



the whole is arranged in lines, as they are here printed: 
Arent Benjohan Clarck 
Dorothea Edward Eurley 
George Henry John 
Katherine Leonard Michael 
Nathaniel Obadiah Peter 
Quintus Richard Samuel 
Thomas Vitel Urban William 
Xerxes Yonge Zacharias 
Then a small alphabet followed by the Arabic numerals. 



1688] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 45 

be not perfectly recovered before that time, we will then exa- 
mine the matter a little nearer. But I hope exercise in the 
open air may do the business, at least I hope there will be 
nothing that will press in the mean time. 

In the description you send me of our Er. Colhans, I 
cannot but find satisfaction. Methinks, I see old father Lu- 
ther installed in his principality, and secured behind a cir- 
cumvallation of folios. I hope the works will go on luckily. 
I wish well to it, and to the author; and I am much better 
pleased with him amongst those silent authors than I should 
have been that he was amongst the silent fishes. I had for- 
got to enquire for the gazette he mentions when I was last 
at the bookseller's; but I will the next time. I thank him 
for the intelligence, and desire to have my respect to him. 
Be sure to keep the manuscript till I come; I must have a 
touch at him. My love to Mrs. Eurley, our friend and the 
young ones. 

I hope by the next to hear that Benny is out of his 
dumps. I am, 

Your affectionate friend, 

J. L. 

Eor Mr. Benjamin Eurley, 
on the Scheepmakers' Haven, in Rotterdam. 



46 LETTEES OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

LETTEE XIX. LOCKE to EUELEY. 

dear friend, Amsterdam, 4 th March, 1688. 

If lying be a sin that is put to account, most ordinary trades- 
men will I fear have a hard reckoning to, even in the next world; 
for there is scarce one of them one can find, who thinks it not 
a privilege of his calling to break his word, whenever it may 
serve his turn.But, however, they are all good Christians, ortho- 
dox believers, and such as one cannot but know to be marked 
for salvation by the distingushing l that stands on their door 
posts, or the funeral sermon, that they may have for a pass- 
port if they will go to the charge of it. This preface will not 
be altogether besides the matter, if you expect me (as His like 
you do) the same day you receive this. But, whatever busi- 
nesS; desire, or resolution one has to see one's friends, those 
above mentioned Gent. I assure you, are first to be attend- 
ed and their leisure to be waited. And "'tis no small joy that 
I am got so far out of their hands, that I can now say with 
some confidence that I hope to be with you on Saturday next. 
As an evidence thereof, I send you by to-day's Yeer Scuyt 
two boxes and a bundle of books; they are marked b. f. lo. 2o.3o. 
the least of the boxes is that which you sent my linen and the 
apples hither in. The other box is twice as big, and has great 
iron hinges and is fastened with a padlock; and the bundle of 
books is as long as the largest size of printing paper folded the 
long way. These you may receive as pledges, that it will not 






1689] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 47 

now be long before I intend to assure yon in the lantern that 
I am, 

Your most affectionate friend and servant, 

J. L.* 



LETTEE XX J. LOCKE to E CLAJRKE. 

DEAR SIR, OATES, 18 MAY, 89. 

I mentioned the Judges' opinion, bsecause, it being a 
matter of law, I thought that would carry most weight 
with it, and that, if the Lords Justices or the Council should 
demand their opinions in the case, they would then give it. 
But I agree with you that a proclamation of the Lords Jus- 
tices to the purpose you mention would be of infinite use, 
and I hope those who have done so much in this affair will 
be able to obtain that too. And take care that the procla- 
mation be so drawn or by such an hand as may not increase 
the difriculties and doubts. Some examples of the kind you 
mention, especially amongst the Lombard street blades, would 
make the matter go glib, and raise the croke against them, 
and turn the poor suffering people's eyes upon them; for 



* The bantering, in this letter, against Orthodoxy, is one 
of the qualities too often apparent in Locke's writings. He 
was not an Arian, as some commentators think, but a close 
perusal of his writings convinces me that in matters of religion 
his mind was wavering and sceptical. 



48 LETTERS OF LOCKE [A.D. 

there lies the great obstrution. Hold but tight as you have 
begun in London, and we shall do well enough, and your 
country will bless the Col.* 

I thank you for paying the money as you did to my cou- 
sins Bonvill and King. That from my cousin Bonvill I have 
received, and shall make the best use of it I can. I intend 
to be in town as soon as the weather is but so warm that I 
leave off fires. It is now with us perfect winter weather, and 
I write this by the fire's side. But warm weather cannot now 
be far off. But, however that may happen, pray give me at 
least a week's warning, and as much longer as is possible, 
before the day set for your journey into the country; for I 
must needs see you, and have many tilings to say to you, and 
therefore will venture my lungs a little sooner than otherwise 
I would in town, not to miss the opportunity of kissing your 
hands. Else, not knowing how long I may be detained, I 
would if I could have so much warm weather as to get off the 
remainder of my cough, before I venture into that inimic air. 

I am dear sir, 

Your most affectionate and most humble servant, 

J. Locke. 

My humble sendee to the Batchelor. All here present 

their service to the whole Coll. I know the multitude of 

your business, and therefore do not wonder that you say no- 



* This perhaps relates to the clipping of money then prevalent. 



1690] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 49 

tiling to me of having yet received a note of Sir Stephen 
Evans for my Lady-day's salary, which T some time since de- 
sired you to take of him %hen the order from the Treasury 
was come to pay the excise officers. If you have not yet re- 
ceived it of him, I beg leave to mind you of it again, and 
to desire you to take it of him, and let it bear the date that 
you received your salary. 

Eor Edward Clarke Esq.* Member of Parliament,at Ri- 
chard's Coffee-house, near Temple-Bar. 

LETTER XXI. LOCKE to EURLEY. 

DEAE EEIEND, OATES, 28 AP. 90. 

Though I am very much concerned and troubled for your 
great loss, yet your sorrow being of that kind which time 
and not arguments is wont to cure, I know not whether I 
should say any thing to you to abate your grief, but that, it 
serving to no purpose at all but making you thereby the 
more unfit to supply the loss of their mother to your remain- 
ing children, (who now more need your care, help, and com- 
fort), the sooner you get rid of it, the better it will be both 



* Edward Clarke, Esq. of Chipley near Taunton, was 
one of the Burgesses for that borough in seven Parliaments, 
from the first of King William, which met in 1690, to the 
third held by Queen Anne, which was dissolved in 1710. 
Locke addressed to him Ins Thoughts on Education. 



50 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

for them and you. If you are convinced tins is fit to be 
done, I need not make use to you of the common though yet 
reasonable topics of consolation. I know you expect not to 
have the common and unalterable law of mortality, which 
reaches the greatest, be dispensed with for your sake. Our 
Mends and relations are but borrowed advantages lent us 
during pleasure, and must be given back when ever called for; 
we receive them upon these terms, and why should we re- 
pine? or, if we do, what profits it us? But I see my affection 
is running me into reasoning, which you need not, and can 
think of without any suggestions of mine. I wonder not at 
the greatness of your grief, but I shall wonder if you let it 
prevail on you; your thinking of retiring some whither from 
business was very natural upon the first stroke of it, but here 
I must interpose to advise you the contrary. It is to give 
yourself up to all the ills that grief and melancholy can pro- 
duce, which are some of the worst we suffer in this life : want 
of health, want of spirit, want of useful thought, is the state 
of those who abandon themselves to griefs, whereof business 
is the best, the safest, and the quickest cure. I say not this 
in favour of your doubt whether you should be acceptable to 
any of your friends : I know none of them you named that I 
do not think you would be acceptable to. And I can assure 
you of it from some whom you did not then even think of; 
my Lady Masham, always enquiring very kindly after you, 
when I told her by the outside that the letter I had then re- 
eived was from you, was impatient to know how you did, 



1690] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 51 

and when I had told her of your loss aud sadness, was migh- 
tily concerned, and desired me to tell yon that, if yon would 
come and spend some time here with her, you should be very 
welcome. You do not doubt, but I should be exceeding glad 
of your company; 1 know no man's I would sooner have 
or should be more pleased with; were I settled in an 
house of my own, I should tell you how welcome you should 
be to me a little more at large, but I suppose you doubt 
it not. But, for all this kind and sincere invitation from my 
Lady Masham ( the like whereof I doubt not but you would 
receive from your other friends, if they knew your state and 
present thoughts ) I advise you to think of none of them. 
You would be presently sick of, and constantly uneasy in 
such a course of life. Keep in your employment; increase it, 
and be as busy in it as you can now more than ever. This is 
best for you and for your children. And when your thoughts 
are a little come to themselves and the discomposure 
over, then calmly consider what will be the best way for you 
to dispose of them and yourself; but at present lay by none 
of your business, nor neglect it in the least. I know there 
is little room for reasoning in the first disorder of grief; 
what that proposes is alone hearkened to. I must therefore 
desire you to trust me on tins occasion. I am your friend, 
and love you; and therefore you may do it. I am unbiassed, 
and not under the prevalency of any passion in the cure, and 
therefore am in a state to judge better, and I will be answer- 
able to you for it you will hereafter, when you are in a better 



52 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A. 1. 

state to do it, consider what will be best for you to resolve. 

I have writ to you twice concerning your Doctor in Scot- 
land, but have never beard a word from you. I told you in 
my last that Mrs. Lockliart tells me he offers to pay the 
principal in five years, bating the use. She thinks not fit to 
abate the use. This is the state of the case; by it take your 
measures. She will be ready to serve you by the same 
hands she manages her own concernment with him. I sent 
to Mr. Wright's lately for your Skinner, which is for Arent 
when you have done with it. 1 sent also to Mr. Wright 
the translation of the first book of my Essay, with a letter to 
Mr. Limborch, to whom I desired the translation might be 
conveyed. I suppose he has sent them by Robinson, who told 
me he had such a roll directed to you. I also desired Capt. 
Eobinson to pay you the five pounds for Tho. Davis. 
Pray have a care of your health and believe that I am 
sincerely yours, J. L. 

I writ you word by Capt. Robinson that I had received 
the Down, but not P. Simon's books, which Robinson says 
he received not, nor can hear of. Remember me to my little 
friend and his brothers. Send me word in your next what 
you have laid out for Syl, for his letters, &c. that I may take 
it of him here. 

Eor Mr. Benjamin Eurley, 

an English Merchant in Rotterdam. 



1691] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBUEY, &c. 53 



LETTEE XXII. LOCKE to EUELEY. 

[ Id a letter of medical advice, dated London, 17th Dec. 
90, Mr. Locke concludes with mentioning that] 

"Mr. and Mrs. Popple, my Lord Ashley, Sir Walter 
Young, Mr. Clarke, and Mr. Ereke, are all by whilst I 
write this, and remember you." 

LETTEE XXIII. LOCKE to EUELEY. 

DEAR FRIEND, OATES, 3 FEB. 91. 

* * * * 

I bear the winter petty well here; but, going to London 
at Christmas, I wanted breath presently, and was almost 
dead in a fortnight. 

I have received the Latin translation of the first book of 
my Essay. I know not by whom, but you say no- 
thing of it in yours either of the 2d or 6th. 

"When you see the gentleman from whom you received a 
letter from the Hague, just as you were writiug to me yours 
of the 6th, pray present my most humble service to him, and 
tell him that I was extremely glad to hear that, after his 
fourteen hours' adventure, he got safe on shore, who- 
ever it was that has the credit by good advice to have saved 
the cargo. 

Pray send by Eobinson P. Simon's Critical List of the 
Versions of the New Testament. Vossius his books I think 
were left to his brother. If I mistake not, I have been told 



54 LETTEES OP LOCKE, [A. D. 

the University of Oxford was like to have bought them of 
him, and offered, as I have heard, a good ronnd sum for 
them; but what is become of them now, I cannot tell, but 
will endeavour to inform. 

My kind love to your wife; I wish her an happy hour. 
Eemember me to my little friend. 

I am yours J. L. 

Eor Mr. Benjamin Eurley, 
an English merchant in Eotterdam. 

LETTEE XXIY. SHAETESBUEY to EUELEY. 

MR. PURLEY, LONDON, JUNE THE 17. 1691. 

This I think will be the last trouble I shall give you; my 
brother being to come from Swisserland where he has been, 
into Holland ; at which time Mr. Denoun his governor (and 
whom you knew formerly with me), will call upon you for 
this letter, which I only desire you to let be kept till that 
time to be then delivered to him when he is arrived; I hope 
about that time to have the happiness of seeing you, for I in- 
tend to come over (though very privately) myself, and to 
make some stay. Till then I rest satisfied to tell you thus, 
in few words, that I am with particular esteem your obliged 

and sincere friend. 

' • 

A. Ashley. 
I intreat you, when you have received this, to acquaint 
me with it, either by yourself, or by Mr. Popple, or Mr. 



1692] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBUM, &c. 55 

Locke, if you chance to write to either of them in any little 
time, that I may be satisfied that this has not miscarried. 

LETTER XXV. LOCKE to CLAEKE. 

DEAIt SIR, OATES, 2 NOV. 1692. 

My wife and I, and all here (except Mrs. Cudworth, who 
also is much mended) are well; and, according to our re- 
spective duties, salute you. I cannot let Sir Francis* come to 
town without telling you this, though I have very little else 
to say unless it be to thank you for your care and trouble 
in my affairs, and that would furnish me with matter enough 
for more than one letter . I have this further favor to beg 
of you, that you would send for Mr. Aunsham Churchill, (to 
whom I have writ four or five times to desire him to send 
me the sheets which have been printed since I came out of 
town, but cannot receive a word from him, ) and tell him I 
would by no means have him publish it,f till I have perused 
all the remaining sheets, which I would have him send to me. 
I desire you would give yourself this trouble; for I am con- 
cerned to see it before it go abroad. 

Pardon me the trouble I give you with my letters and 
believe that I am perfectly yours, J. L. 



* Sir Francis Masham, of Oates. 

t Apparently his Thoughts on Education. 



56 LETTERS OF LOCKE, [A. D. 



LETTER XXYL LOCKE to CLARKE. 

DEAR SIR, OATES, llo NOV. [1692], 

"Omnia bene " yon know needs not many words to make 
a return in; I wish yon can give such an account from 
thence. 

I expect every day several books concerning the Inquisi- 
tion writ by Mr. Limborch* Amongst the rest there is one 
for the Bishop of Bath and Wells with a letter to him. I 
have ordered Mr. Pawling to put what is for that worthy f 
into your hands, to be delivered him by you in my stead and 
with my service; pray exeuse my not having waited upon 
him, as I have a long time desired, and hope ere long I shall 
have the opportunity to do, though it be one of the inconve- 
niencies I suffer from my] ill lungs, that they usually drive 
me out of town when most of my friends, and those whom I 
would wish to be near, are in it. 

Eor Edward Clarke, Esq. Member of Parliament, at Mrs. 
Henman's overagainst Little turnstile, in Holburne, London. 



* "Historia Inquisitionis; cui subjungitur Liber Sententia- 
rum Inquisit. Tholosanee, ab 1307 ad 1323. Amst. 1692/' 
folio; but is not to be at all relied on for correctness; See 
Notes to the Life of St. Dominic by Butler, iu Ins Lives of 
the Saints. Aug. 4th. in vol. viii. 

t Richard Kibder, D. D. 



1692] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUEY, &c. 57 



LETTEE XXVII. LOCKE to CLAEKE. 

oates, 28 Nov. 1692. 
* * * * * 

I must beg you to send again for Mr. Churchill, and 
let him write down from you these names, — Ashby, Newton, 
Sommers, Popple, Le Clerc,Eurley, Wright, Ereke, andFor- 
min, [and Treby and Ker. These two last if you think fit, 
for I am in some doubt whether it be prudent or no, *] but 
to none of them as from me. To yourself more than one if 
you please. Hither two to be sent. Bid him forthwith bring 
in all the remainder of the copy to you. And let him send 
me hither the History of the Air t complete, that I may see 
it before it be published. 



LETTEE XXVIII. LOCKE to CLARKE. 

dear sir, Oates, 9o Dec. 1692. 

I must beg you, the first time you see my Lord Bellamont, 
with my humble service to assure his Lordship, that his com- 
mands will in all cases have that weight and authority with 
me, as to dispose of all the power I have for his service: that 
therefore to enable me to serve him on the present occasion, 



* The words between crotchets are scratched through 
with a pen. t See hereafter. 



58 LETTEBSOP LOCKE, [A. D. 

1 desire his Lordship to send me Mr. Stanley's name and 
qualifications, and the place he has now in the Court, and 
whatever he thinks may recommend him to my Lord P — : for 
this is an inviolable rule, which I always do and shall observe 
in recommending any person, that I say what I know myself 
of them, and whatever is beyond my knowledge I always tell 
upon whose report and credit it is that I say it, so that I 
shall be sure to vouch my Lord Bellamont's testimony, which 
cannot but be better than mine for a person whom I am so 
little acquainted with, as I have the honor to be with Mr. 
Stanley. 

"When the imprest roll comes to your hand,pray be sure, be- 
fore you do anything else, to get a perfect account of the form 
of the oath, though I am apt to think it is such as I told you. 
People generally think that, if one has an interest any 
where one may use it as one pleases, whereas I think one has 
it and preserves it only by a fair and cautious use of it. If 
my Lord B. would reflect upon what I have said and my 
way of proceeding, winch I never do nor shall vary from, he 
would see it would be of no great advantage to the business to 
send his recommendation of the Gentleman to my Lord P — ■ 
round about by my hand, and therefore if you can put him 
off from sending me on so silly an errand, you may mind him 
that I used the same method and measures in recommending 
Mr. La Treille to Sir James Ptushout, and that you know 
I will not, nor can an honest man vary from it. 
I am, dear Sir, yours, J. L, 



1691] SIDNEY, SHAETESBtJEY, fee. U 



LETTER XXIX. LOCKE to CLAEKE. 

dear sir, Oates, 11 Jan. [1694]i 

I hope this airing of your son these holidays in the country 
will he convenient for his health,and no prejudice to his 
learning. He was welcome to every hody here, and particularly 
tome; and I am glad to find him such a proficient ^in the 
Latin, from which I conclude that in a little time now he 
will be master of that tongue. But schools I see still are 
schools, and make school-boys. I say this to make you 
observe whether it be not to be apprehended, that the main 
benefit of a dancing master will be lost, though he dance 
constantly two or three times a week, if those, who ought to 
have the constant care of him in every part, do not look after 
and mind his postures, carriage, and motions, when he is out 
of the dancing master's hands, for without that the steps and 
figures of dances I think of no value. 

•K- * &• * 

I wish you and yours a happy year, and am, Dear Sir., 
Tour most affectionate friend and humble servant, 

J. Locke. 



60 LETTEES OE LOCKE, [A. D. 



LETTEE XXX. LOCKE to CLAEKE. 

deah sir, London, 30 June, 94. 

Yours of the 26 th brought me the welcome news of your 
safe arrival with your family at Ivychurch. I hope the rest you 
take there will carry you out easily all of you the remainder 
of your journey. 

Tuesday last I went to see our friend J. E. ; upon dis- 
course with him he told me he had subscribed £300, which 
made me subscribe £500; and so that matter stands: last 
night the subscriptions amounted to £1,100,000, and to- 
night I suppose they are all full. Mr. Ereke talks of going 
out of town Monday, and I shall go Tuesday. The commis- 
sion and charter are now printed at large; I shall leave them 
with Clarke the tailor, to be sent you. I have received my £64 
out of the Exchequer. 

There is no news of any action in Elanders, or from the 
fleet: but a buzz of peace, I know not how grounded. 

Thursday last my Lord Keeper, * whom I met by chance 
in the Gallery going to the Council, did me the honor to en- 
quire about my stay, expressed great desire to speak with me 



* Sir John Sommers, made Lord Chancellor and a 
Peer in 1697. 



1696] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUEY, &o. 61 

before I went out of town, and asked (for you know his civi- 
lity) whether he might send to me when he found leisure- 
time. 

My most humble service to Madam. 
I am, dear Sir, 
Your most affectionate humble servant, 

J. Locke. 



LETTEE XXXI. LOCKE to CLAEKE. 

DEAK SIR. OATES, 25o MARCH, 96. 

I am very glad the design of fixing a rate on guineas, es- 
pecially at 25 s, was defeated. The thing I look on to be ill 
in itself, and worse in the intention. The subscribers will 
now be able to put off their guineas at a high rate, to the 
cost of the government, nor the raisers I hope be able to 
compass their so long labored design of raising the denomina- 
tion of our coin.'* Did I not see so ready a motion towards 
both of them, especially the latter, I could scarce imagine 
that any Englishman could harbour a thought so destruc- 
tive to his country as I apprehend these to be. But what 

* See Letter XXXY. 



U LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A. t>. 

may one not believe of Englishmen when there are those 
found amongst them that would favor a Erench invasion? 

Is there no hope to put a total end to clipping amd coin- 
ing? Methinks the present ferment should raise some vigor, 
and put a stop to that great and surely destructive evil. 
Dear Sir, Your most affectionate humble servant, 

J, Locke, 



LETTEE XXXII. LOCKE to CLARKE. 
beau col: Dates, 24 Afr. 9 ft. 

I see by the temper the country is in (and I doubt not but 
there are those who will blow the coal) that, if London do 
not set them a good example, the act will be broken through, 
and clipping will we continued upon us. The trade, I am 
sure,goes on as brisk as ever; a company was lately taken at 
or about Ware. Somebody ready, as soon as the day comes, 
to arrest a goldsmith that refused to pay money according to 
the law, woidd spoil the trick, especially if several of them 
were made examples. If clipped money once get but cur- 
rency in London amongst those blades, but for the first week 
after the 4th of May, I look upon it as irretrievable; but if 
it be stopped there, the rest of the kingdom will fall into it, 
especially if receiving clipped money by weight can be intro- 
duced. These are my thoughts, which I trouble those with, 
who I know are able to make use of them, if they may be of 



1698] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUBY, &c. 63 

any. Duty and service respectively from all here. I am, 
dear Col. 

Your most affectionate and faithful servant, 

J. Locke, 



LETTEB XXXIII. LOCKE to EUELEY. 

DEAE FRIEND, OATES, 28 APRIL, 1698. 

I received with great joy the account you writ me by 
W. Limborck of your and your wife's health, and the pro- 
mising estate of all your children. I count it the great 
comfort of a father, which I am very glad you have in all 
your sons, to a degree not common in any age, and very rare 
in this. May you live long in prosperity to enjoy it with 
grateful satisfaction. My little friend I find deceives not 
my expectation. I pretend not, you know, to prophesy; 
but ever since I first knew that child, I could not forbear 
thinking that he would go a great way in any thing he 
should be set to, and would not make a mean figure in the 
world. Pray remember me very kindly to him, and tell him 
that I am very glad to hear so well of him, for I love him 
exceedingly. 

I am very vexed at the dishonesty of your brother in law, 
for your sake, because it is like to be troublesome to you, 
and for my own sake, because it is like to hinder me from 
seeing of you this summer, and what may become of me 
next winter I know not. I was forced to go to town in 



64 LETTERS OE LOCLE, AD. 

December last : but in two day's stay there I was almost dead, 
and the third I was forced to fly for it, in one of the bitterest 
days I have known, for I verily believe one night's longer 
stay had made an end of me. I have been here ever since, 
and in the chimney-corner, aud write this by the fire-side, 
for we have yet no warmth from the sun, though the days 
are almost at their full length, and it was but yesterday 
morning that it snowed very hard for near two hours toge- 
ther. This great indisposition of my health, which is not 
yet recovered to any great degree, keeps me here out of the 
air of London, and the bustle of affairs. I am little furnish- 
ed with news, and want it less. I have lived long enough 
to see that a man's endeavours are ill laid oat upon any 
thing but himself, and his expectations very uncertain when 
placed upon what others pretend or promise to do. I say 
not tins with any regard to my private concerns, which I 
own give me no cause of complaint, since my desires are 
confined in a narrow compass, but in answer to what you 
say with public views. Now there is peace I wish it may 
last my days. If not, I wish I and my friends may escape 
the disorders of war. But after all every one must take his 
lot according to the fate of the age he lives in. 

You must pardon tin's hum-drum from a man who is 
much removed from the commerce of the world, and yet 
when he has the pen in his hand, cannot forbear writing some- 
thing to an old and valued friend such as you are. I am al- 
most quite alone here now. Sir Erancis, my Lady, and Mr. 



1698] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 65 

Masham are all now atLondon, and have been for some weeks. 
If a wish conld bring yon hither, yon and I in a day or two 
would have a good deal of talk together. I know not what we 
may do when we are spirits, but this earthly cottage is 
not I perceive so easily removed. I live in hopes yet of see- 
ing you this summer; for a composition is better than law, 
and I know yon love not wrangling. My service to your 
Lady and your sons. I am not well satisfied that I saw not 
your son John all the time he was in England, though I 
know not whom to be angry with for it. 

Your most affectionate friend, J. Locke. 

To BEN. EURLY, at Rotterdam. 

LETTER XXXIY. LOCKE to CLARKE. 
dear sir, Oates, 7o May, 98. 

My Lady Masham has said something to me concerning 
my wife.* Since she has been here, she has been vjry re- 
served; if it be her usual temper, 'tis well; if it be present 
thoaghtfulness, 'tis worth your consideration how I shall 
carry myself to her. You must instruct me, for I love her, 
and you know I am at your disposal to serve you. She tells 



"^Apparently a little girl of Mr. Clark's is here meant. In 
his letter of the 23d of Aug. 1700, Mr. Locke says: 
"Lady Masham desired me to invite you and my wife down 
hither." 



66 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A. D. 

me she thinks Mrs. Clarke mends: I am very glad to hear it. 



LETTER XXXV. LOCKE to CLARKE. 

OATES, 24 FEB. 98 — 9. 

•* ■* *■ ■* •* i am gj a( j there is a stop at last put 
to the loss of the kingdom by the high rate of guineas 

LETTER XXXVI. LOCKE to SIR HANS SLOANE. 

SIR, OATES, 2 DEC. 99. 

Since you command me, I here send you what I propos- 
ed above a twelvemonth since for the reforming of our year, 
before the addition of an other day increase the error, and 
make us, if we go on in our old way, differ the next year 
eleven days from those who have a more rectified calendar. 
The remedy which I offer is that the intercalary day should 
be omitted the next year, and so the ten next leap years fol- 
lowing, by which easy way we should in forty-four years in- 
sensibly return to the new style. This I call an easy way, 
because it would be without any prejudice or disturbance to 
any one's civil rights, which, by the lopping off of ten or 
eleven days at once in any one year, might perhaps receive 
inconvenience, the only objection that ever I heard made 
against rectifying our account. I need not say any thing to 
you how inexcusable it is in so learned an age as this and in 



1698] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 67 

a country wherein astronomy is carried to a higher pitch 
than ever it was in the world, an error which every body 
sees and owns to have growing inconveniences in it. I shall 
rather chose to wish that when this information is made, the 
beginning of the year with us might be reduced from the 
25th of March to the first of January, that we might herein 
agree with our neighbours and the rest of the Christian 
world. 

Now I am writing, give me leave to say one word more, 
though on a subject very different. The stories I have 
heard of the performance of the strong man now in London 
would be beyond belief, were there not so many witnesses 
of it. 1 think they deserve to be communicated to the pre- 
sent age and recorded to posterity. And therefore I think 
you cannot omit to give him a place in your Transactions; 
his country, age, stature, bigness, make, weight, and then 
the several proofs he has given of his strength, which may 
be a subject of speculation and inquiry to the philosophical 
world. 

I took the liberty to send you, just before I left town, the 
last edition of my Essay. I do not intend you shall have it 
gratis. There are two new chapters in it, one of the Asso- 
ciation of Ideas, and an other of Enthusiasm; these two I 
expect you should read aud give me your opinion frankly 
upon. Though I have made other large additions, yet it 
would be to make you pay too dear to expect you should 
be at the task to find them out and read them. You will 



68 LETTEBS OE LOCKE, [A. D. 

do very friendly by me, if yon forgive my wasting yonr time 
on those two chapters. 

I am, Sir, Yonr most humble and faithful servant, 

J. Locke. 

By what yon will find in Monsr. Bernard's Nouvelles de la 
Kepublique des Lettres, mois du Mai, article 9, yon will see 
that what yon demanded of me concerning the reforming our 
account was scarce worth yonr asking; since it is there in 
print already; somebody, it seems, that had heard me talk 
of it, having sent an account of it into Holland. 

Sir H. Sloane, at his house at the end of Southampton 
Street, joining to Southampton Square, London. 

LET. XXXVII. SHAETESB. to H. WILKINSON* 

WILKINSON, CHELSEA, MAY 20, 1700. 

I received both thine, and the last with an acconnt of the 
hardships thou liest under because of the different hands and 
different methods of accounts thit are taught. 

These are difficulties, which by the help of God and thy 
own diligence thou mayest easily and soon overcome. 

That which I would chiefly know from thee is if thou find- 



* Mr. Henry Wilkinson was a young gentleman educated 
at Lord Shaftesbury's expence, and by him placed in Mr. 
Eurley's counting house; he afterwards lived with a wine- 
merchant at Rotterdam, and, upon his death, married the 
widow, and carried on the business. 



1700] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUBY, &c. 69 

est the place to be sober, and that thou canst serve God, 
and hast encouragement and example to do thy duty to him, 
and to fit thyself for thy calling and employment in the 
world. 

I am sorry there is so much English spoke; for thou 
wilt learn the Erench and Dutch so much the slower. But do 
thou what thou canst to avoid that company which is of 
least profit to thee, and perhaps may do thee most harm; for 
the English, that I have known abroad, have always been the 
most debauched of the place. Pray God keep thee; all here 
are well, and remember thee kindly. See that thuu dost well 
and deservest their remembrance, and my charity to thee, 
as thy kind friend, Shaftesbury. 

LETTEE XXXYIII. SHAETESB. to EUELEY. 

MR. FTJRLEY, ST. GILESES, ATJG. 5, 1700. 

I delayed writing in answer to yours of the 24th past, 
till I could hear from Mr. Wilkinson's father in law, whom 
I have now heard from, and he has writ to you (he tells me) 
that he will be ready to do all on his part for binding his 
son in law,and will be bound himself for his fidelity, &c, 
which you may be sure I "will also; but I desire this as a sort 
of obligation upon them; so that I woidd have you take this 
of him for my sake, aad you shall have my security and 
bond for the £500, if required. I bid the father in law (one 
Mr. Leech) apply to Mr. Wright, your correspondent in 
town; and being ignorant myself of the form of binding one, 



70 LETTERS OF LOCKE, [A. D. 

if you will send instructions thither for him, and inform me 
what is to be my part, I will sign the letter cf attorney aud 
bond as is requisite. 

The news of the Duke of Gloster's* death and Princess's 
iUmss, has made a great ferment amongst us, and those that 
are concerned for monarchy are in perplexity about a succes- 
sor, fearing the crown should fall again soon into the people's 
hands; who they think will hardly let it go out again. We 
hear at the same time that the same partizans of monarchy 
and government in one, are labouring at any rate to get a 
successor in your country. I would fain hear from you and 
our friends what your thoughts are about this, that we here 
may know what measure to take. Pray write me as soon as 
possible about this, and if you can get any occasion by a pri- 
vate hand, write me more largely and plainly about it; though 
with a little caution, one may write about any thing by the 
post: only 'tis best not to put a name to it, for we know one 
another's hands; and, though others may know them, yet it 
is not the same advantage to them as when they have the 
name.t 



* William, son of the Princess Anne afterwards Queen. 

t It may be inferred from the caution, which Lord S. here 
advises his correspondent to observe, that the ministers of go- 
vernment in his day exercised the same scandalous privilege 
of opening letters which has been in our own times [1846] 
made the subject of a parliamentary inquiry. 



1700] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 71 

I have sent to Aunsham Churchill to send yon two Har- 
ringtons * for my two friends Mr. Yan Tweede and Mr. 
Yerburg, to whom, with the rest of my good friends, I beg 
my kind remembrances and most humble service. Wishing 
you and your family all health and prosperity, I remain 
your sincere friend and servant. 

I hope the lad Wilkinson behaves himself well and so as 
to deserve your kindness to him. I am satisfied that all his 
correspondences hitherto are innocent (for I looked into the 
business of that odd letter, and find it is only a piece of 
foolishness from some of his mother's acquaintances), and it is 
highly reasonable he should hereafter have no correspondence 
but what you know of and inspect. I received a line from 
the lad this post (pray tell him), by which I know you are all 
well. 

LETTER XXXIX. LOCKE to CLARKE. 

dear sir, Matching Tre, 23 Atjg. 1700. 

* * * * * 

I know nothing so likely to produce quiet sleep as riding 

about gently in the air for many hours every day. If your 
mind can be brought to contribute a little its part to the lay- 



* The Works of James Harrington, the author of Oceana 
and a celebrated political writer, were published this year in 
folio, edited by Toland. 



72 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D 

ing aside troublesome ideas, I could hope this might do 
much. This may be a farther inducement for your coining 
hither, for I am on horseback every day. Pray return my 
thanks to my wife for her letter. 



LETTER XL. SHAETESBURY to H. WILKINSON. 

hakry, St. Giles's, Sep. 26, 1700. 

I have waited a while before I would write to you, 
expecting to hear concerning you and your behaviour; and I 
thank God I hear well. I am also glad to hear from you 
yourself of Mr. Eurley's and Mrs. Em-ley' s kind usage of you. 
I pray God you may still continue to deserve it; which I 
doubt not but you will do, if you continue to be truly thankful 
and grateful (as you express yourself in your letter) both to 
them, and above all to Almighty God, whose providence has 
engaged so many persons in your behalf, and to supply the 
want of other Mends and fortune, in those hard circum stances 
which you were born to. I pray God continue in yon the 
sense of tins; that by your diligence in your calling, by your 
duty and obedience to your master and superiors, and by 
meekness, and humility, and goodness, such as ought to be 
in every one that is truly a Christian,you may be acceptable 
to God, and have favour with those you serve, and with all 
that know you; which will be to the great satisfaction of 



1700] SIDNEY, SHAETESBURY, &c. 73 

Mm who is your kind benefactor and hearty well wisher and 
friend, Shaftesbury. 

All here are well and rejoice to hear deservingly and well 
of you. Pray let me hear from you every fortnight as I 
ordered you; and write to me of your progress, and what 
occurs to you or is remarkable. I have wrote to Mr. Fur- 
ley by this post. 

LETTER XLI. LOCKE to CLARKE. 

dear sir, Gates, 11 Nov. 1700. 

The very day I writ to you last in confidence that my 
sore leg was as good as well, my other before night began to 
be out of order : and between the one and the other of them, 
I am not yet free from pain and trouble: but I hope I shall 
in a little time get over it. In the mean time I have one 
inconvenience now the cold weather comes in, which, if my 
legs should remain in the state they are, would make me very 
uneasy. You know that I have but one way to keep my 
feet warm, that are apt to be without a fire icy cold. But 
now, if I approach the fire, the only remedy for my cold feet, 
the sores that yet remain on my legs, as soon as they feel 
any warmth from the fire, do so burn and shoot, that the 
pain is intolerable. This obliges me to spend a great part of 
my time in bed, a way of living I do not much like. Though 
when I consider well, I think I ought to be content that I 



74 LETTERS OP LOCKE, [A.D. 

am at all amongst the living. 'Tis not the spleen that sug- 
gests this thought : but the news I hear this post, that my 
old friend Mr. Hodges is dead. He, Dr. Thomas, and 
I, were intimate in our younger days in the University; they 
two are gone, and who could have thought that I, much the 
weakest and most unlikely of the three, should have outlived 
them!* 



LETTER XLII. SHAETESBURY to EURLEY. 

mr. eurley, St. Giles's, Nov. the 15th, 1700 

I have more than one of yours to answer, but the desire 
of answering them well (particularly as to some questions of 
what our Parliament might do with respect to certain affairs 
abroad) has made me delay writing all this while that we 
were kept in suspence aud in continual alarm about a new 
Parliament, whieh now is at an end, it being determined that 
the old should sit. 

'Till this was determined, it was altogether impossible 



*Many instances might be adduced of the weakest of a 
set of youthful contemporaries living to enjoy the longest 
and healthiest old age; and it is explained on the principle 
that weakly persons, being aware of their infirmity, eat less, 
and are guilty of less excess in general than those who have 
stronger constitutions. 



1700] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUEY, &c. 75 

to make any judgment what was likely to be the result: for 
a new Parliament might have taken new measures; but the 
time is now coming that Parliaments will be no more under 
the influence of courts as formerly,so that, be it what Parlia- 
ment it will, their councils will be the same, only this one Par- 
liament, had it been dissolved, might have created some 
doubt; but the blow is over, and a greater blow abroad, the 
death of the King of Spain, and what has followed, has 
made this not to light upon us, a dissolution being on 
several accounts not so advisable since this conjuncture. 

But to explain myseif the better about this [matter] of 
Parliaments, and why this dissolution might have been so 
great a blow, T will give you these reasons, on which, if my 
own judgment be good, you may yourself form a judgment, 
and give light to others of our friends. 

Two things made this to be a crisis in our Parliamentary 
concerns, and a guiding measure as to future councils; the 
one was, that this Parliament last session began the great 
stroke towards the liberty of Parliament and a total reform, 
by lopping off at once one considerable member of the court 
body, viz. the Excise Office and their dependents, from the 
Parliament or any concern in parliamentary election or 
affairs : and this must immediately, if not checked in the be- 
ginning, be carried through, and by parity of reason and na- 
ture of the tiling extend itself to the thorough purgation 
of the Parliament, and reducing it solely and wholly to the 
country bottom. 



76 LETTEES OP LOCKE. [A. D. 

Tlie second cause was this. The ending of last session 
was, on the Court side,a beginning with a Tory ministry, and 
an essay made of this kind by first throwing out the Chancel- 
lor ** and afterwards others. Now since this, Lord Godol- 
phin, now brought into the Treasury, Lord Eochester, and 
the rest of that party, have been esteemed the undertakers 
and to be the managers in a new Parliament chosen by their 
interest, when all things were first put into their hands, and 
pledges given to the church party such as were desired. Now 
here had been the danger of this turn, which I thank God 
we have escaped. The Whigs, you know, have for several years, 
and in these last Parliaments especially, been shameful in 
their over great condescensions to the Court, and by this 
have lost their interest much in the country. Now had the 
King suddenly deserted them, and made them a sacrifice to 
the now popular Tories, who by acting the part of patriots 
have got great repute: and the coup try not seeing their 
danger, and the Tories being restored to what they naturally 
belong to, a high and absolute court and church interest, 
the mark had been taken off, and they being in possession 
of the Parliament might have unravelled the clue back again 
and modelled all things to their own purpose. What they 
might have done farther as to our succession here at home, 
so as to have wholly brought us back again to where we 
were before the Eevolution, this I must leave you to guess, 
but will not venture to mention in a letter. But now this 

* Lord Sommers. 



1700] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUBY, &c. 77 

design has miscarried,, all is worse for the court than ever it 
was, and must go better on the side of the country; nor will 
this blow be feared hereafter, for the Parliament being of 
necessity to be dissolved, by the triennial law, after this 
next session, the Whig party, who have had fair warning, 
and see they were designed a sacrifice, and see also even at 
this time many of their party sacrificed for their compliance 
with the court, will be careful of their behaviour in this 
next great probationary session, so that they may approve 
themselves to their country, and wash off the court stain. 

The Tories on the other hand, despairing of a thorough 
and absolute turn of affairs to their side, which they have 
missed by missing this blow, will be able to gain bat a slen- 
der interest for the court in this Parliament, and will most 
of them carry on the face of tolerable patriots, and thus jou. 
may judge how advantageously matters are likely to go on the 
side of the country, the ill accident in affairs abroad hav- 
ing been the occasion of this good at home. Therefore, in 
return of tins particular account from me of our home af- 
fairs, do you instruct me of affairs abroad, that I may in- 
struct others against Parliament-time, that we here may act 
the best and wisest in this difficult season,for the safety of the 
protestant religion and common liberty. I thall be in town 
at the Parliament's sitting, but not sooner: my stay being 
of some use here, where I have laboured very hard, and 
been continually employed on the expected dissolution, which 
would have been so great a struggle in the country. I long 



78 LETTERS OF LOCKE, [A. D. 

to hear from you of affairs abroad, and wishing you and 
yours all prosperity, remain Your known friend. 

LETTEE XLIII. SHAFTESBUEY to EUELEY. 

ME. FTJRLEY, DECEMBER THE 16th, 1700. 

The enclosed, which was designed for Mr. Y. T. whose I 
received in yours, I send you imperfect rather than return no- 
thing this post, that I am in so great haste. If you think 
I have writ any thing intelligible, you will read it to him, 
for it will be legible perhaps to you, who are used to my 
worst hand. 

However I intreat you either with it or without it to pre- 
sent my most humble service to him, with, particular thanks 
for Iris letter, and accept at the same time the hearty service 
towards you and yours of your faithful friend. 

I neither date this nor the enclosed from any place, but 
you may know I am still in the west, and must be for a while. 
I beg my sincere respects and service to Mynheer P. S. and 
t\\e rest of my friends. 

LETTEE XLIY. LOCKE to SIE H. SLOANE. 

Sm, Dates, 27 Dec. 1700. 

It is not fit I let the year go out before I return you my 

thanks for the many favors I have received from you in it, 

particularly for the Philosophical Transactions, whereof those 

of July and August came but lately to my hands. Those of 



1700] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 79 

April, May, and June I thank you for, as well as the rest, 
although I have them not yet, which I impute to the for- 
getfulness of Mr. Churchill's men, who have with care laid 
them aside for me, and then I shall have them when I send 
for them, and therefore pray receive my thanks for them all. 
And give me leave to own to you, that I am ashamed to be 
so much enriched by you in philosophical knowledge without 
furnishing any tiling to your collections. 

I came into the country with a design of employing 
some part of my leisure in looking over some papers I have, 
with an intention to offer you anything I should find in them 
that I might presume you would think worthy to appear 
amongst these observations which you continue to oblige the 
world with. But sore legs, that seized on me soon after 
my coming hither, and that have ever since made me spend 
the greatest part of my time in bed, have kept me from that 
and several other things I proposed to myself. I thank 
God my legs are now pretty well again, but my old evil of 
my breast, (as is to be expected from every year's increase 
of age) sits heavier upon me than it was wont to do formerly 
in country air. I have read physic enough to think it not 
at all strange that it should do so and therefore am not start- 
led at it. The tenement must at some time or other fall to 
dust, and mine had held out beyond expectation. "Whilst I 
stay here I would be willing to do that little that I can; and 
if I have an opportunity, make some acknowledgment to you. 



80 LETTERS OP LOCKE, [A. D. 

I have a register of the weather for the ten years past, of 
the same kind with those you may remember of mine publish- 
ed in Mr. Boyle's History of the Air, p. 104,&c. I know not 
whether it will be fit to clog your Transactions with such 
things as those. Be you judge of this. I know that I did not 
keep this register for my own sake alone * and that, if I had 
any thing of more value than this, I should not refuse it you 
if you thought it worth the having. 

A diabetes is a disease so little frequent that you will not think 
it strange that I should ask whether you in your great practise 
ever met with it. You will do me the favour to tell me the 
pathognomonic signs of it and if you have cured it or known 
it, and you will oblige me in instructing me in the method . 
I wish you a merry Christmas and a happy new year, and am 
Sir, Your most humble servant, 

John Locke. 



*lt is, however appositely remarked in the Biographia 
Britannica that Locke "had an instinctive cause for making 
choice of this branch of Natural Philosophy ,in the particular 
infirmity of his constitution which was asthmatic; and it is 
observable that these histories have since been made excellent 
use of towards discovering the Qualities of the Air by another 
gentleman (Dr. John Arbuthnot. in 1731), who laboured also 
under the like constitutional disorder/' 



170J] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUEY, &c. 81 

LETTEE XLV. SHAETESBUEY to EUELEY. 

MR. EUELEY, St. G's, Jan. THE 11th, 1700-1. 

I received both yours, that which gives me notice of the 
receipt of mine and the enclosed, and that which came by Mr. 
Crellis. Mr. Awnsham Churchill the other day mentioned to me 
your not having heard from me lately: which has made me in 
pain lest that enclosed should have been intercepted : winch now 
I am glad to hear came safe. We are now in the midst of our 
elections,of which the West of England having much the great- 
est share, and I being here placed with my fortune and all my 
interest, you may imagine I am not a little sollicitous at tins 
time of danger,having explained to you the extremity of our af- 
fairs, by these rash counsels for a dissolution at this conjuncture, 
which I am satisfied the King ere this is fully convinced was 
a wrong measure, enough to ruin us all. But by the sound la- 
bors of our friends I am in hopes things are so well balanced 
that a good Parliament will be chosen, even under all disadvan- 
tages, which can hardly ever happen again. So that since I now 
write you some hopes after having so dreaded tins stroke, you 
may for the future hope well with me for England, since, 
escaping this Parliament, it will have little to fear hereafter, if 
we can be supported now at this instant while the Parliament 
is meeting, and till they have time to deliberate for our com- 
mon safety. Therefore pray God send you courage and united 
councils abroad, so as not to yield to anything that may ruin 
the common cause before you see what the Parliament of Eng- 



82 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A. D. 

land produces, which. I hope will be well; since the whole force 
of the new Tory Ministry will not, I hope, be able to create 
a Tory Parliament; though it will come very near. So that, if 
the Parliament be as I judge it likely to be, (and as you shall 
hear further from me, as the elections proceed,) the advantages 
we shall reap from hence will be these. The King making 
use of his new Ministry to propose money will save our party 
the load of this, and the odium either of a war or any such 
measures as are necessary for our common preservation. Or, 
if on the other side he finds his Ministry restive, he will by that 
discover their treachery, and must be forced to put things en- 
tirely into other hands, which I am in hopes this Parliament 
will have strength enough to bear him out in : though at the 
same time there will be such a balance the other way, that it 
will be impossible for things to be carried furiously a court 
way by the Whig party, which was once our danger, but can 
never be again, their experience having taught them better, 
since this sacrifice made of them, after their court services. 

If I had ever so much time I could not write you any more 
of our concerns till I saw more elections over, and were able to 
confirm to you (as I hope I shall in a short time) that our elec- 
tions in the main will prove right; which if you consider things 
as I laid them before you some months ago, you will esteem 
a great providence on our side. As for the disorders and cor- 
ruptions in our elections in several places, this will but hasten 
our remedy, and bring on our necessary reformation more 
speedily. The only thing to be hoped and prayed for, is, that 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBLBY, &c. 83 

the Tory party may not be superior: for, if but ever so little 
inferior, their numbers will be of service rather than of injury -.for, 
as it is said of water or fire, so it may be said of them, that they are 
good servantsjbut ill masters; and, as by principles they are slaves, 
so they are only serviceable v^hen they are kept so, and their 
slivery and subjection is the only pledge of our freedom, or of 
the freedom of the world, as far as we in England are contribu- 
tors to it, and let our friends in Holland know their friends 
here, and take notice that it is that party that hate the Dutch 
and love France, and the Whigs the only contrary party that 
can now save them and England. Farewell. 



LETTER XLVI. SHAFTESB to H. WILKINSON. 

Wilkinson, . St. Giles's Jan. 18, 1700-1. 

I received yours since that of your journey to the Hague, 
and am well satisfied with every thing you write me; only I 
would have you write more in your letters, and try your own inge- 
nuity in writing me what remarks you can, and what observa- 
tions you make more and more in the country where you are, and 
where I hope by this time you pretty well understand the lan- 
guage; as you will French I hope hereafter. You did well to 
write to me of your diversion and exercise amongst other things 
as your seating, which being innocent and healthy, and what 
your master allows and approves, I am very well pleased with. 
I remember young Mr. Eurley used to work hard in Mr. 
Furley's garden, which will be a notable work for you, if Mr. 



84 LETTEB3 OP LOCKE, [A. D, 

Purley gives you the employment sometimes; for, since you 
should have exercise for your health and as relaxation from 
business, such exercise as this is far better than the idle plays 
of youth, which I hope you will carefully avoid; seeking always 
some honester exercise, and some useful labor of the body as 
the best refreshment after the labor of the mind, and the study 
which you are to stick to for your own improvement and master's 
service, and this is the way to prosper every way, and to do well, 
both as to mind and body, and interest in the world; so as to 
have favor with your master, with friends and all persons, with 
me in particular, who have made myself a father to you; and 
what is far more than all this, with God, whose blessing you may 
thus expect, and not if you do less than this; since,as you have 
been provided for by a particular blessing and providence 
of God, and in an uncommon way, so you must more than 
commonly behave yourself, and not as commonly the rest 
of lads whose case is not like yours. Pray think on this con- 
tinually, as you have any regard to your duty either to God 
or your superiors, and to my admonitions and injunctions, and 
though I write and shall continue to write as a parent and mas- 
ter to you, and with strict admonishment, yet be you sure to let 
me hear from you with your usual freedom, and write what 
comes in your mind without restraint or fear. 

My kind remembrances to your master and family. I 
writ last post but one to him, and pray let him know, I hope I 
can still coufirm the good hopes I writ him as to the proceed- 
ings of our elections of parliament-men, for it will not be a Tory 
Parliament, as designed. 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUEY, fee; 85 

Tare thee well, and pray God bless thee! I am what thou 
knowest me to be. 

To Mr. Wilkinson. 



LETTEE XL VII. SHAFTESBURY to EUELEY. 

me. ftjrley, London, March 4th, 1700-1. 

Since what I writ you by the last post but one, I received 
yours with the enclosed letter and scheme, which appears to 
me the best and most ingenious proposal of any of those 
that are for a compounding game, and for making war on 
any other foot but that of throwing France cut of all, 
and putting Spain again (by the Archduke) in possession of 
all; which is wholly my opinion, esteeming all partition -treat- 
ies, of which we have had enough, to be fatal. But as to 
this in particular, the reason I judge in the same manner of 
it is: 

I. Because I conceive that, if the highest policy of man 
were, on a first discovery of the West Indies, to deliberate how 
to settle them for the happiness and peace of Europe, they 
could not do better than to join such an instrument of power 
to so infirm and impotent a body as Spain is, and ever must 
remain, if not altered in its constitution; and, in fact, that 
which must any other way have become a bone of dissension 



86 LETTERS OP LOCKE, [A. D. 

to all Europe, lias not itself been the moving canse or real oc- 
casion of any war, or attempt of war, in a whole age now past: 
whereas, should the Spanish original property in the West 
Indies be once loosened, and new possessions admitted, 'it would 
become the common prey of the contending Powers great at 
sea: and the shares granted to the English and Dutch, on the 
foot of such a treaty of peace established, would immediately 
ruin those foundations of peace and happy correspondence, Vliich 
(as things now stand) may be so easily established and riveted 
between these two nations for their mutual preservation, and the 
common interest of religion and liberty. 

Should the war be begun on this foot, and not on that of mak- 
ing the Archduke King of all Spain, the Princes and States of 
Italy, besides others in Europe, as well as the great and strong 
party of the malecontents in Spain and the European Spanish do- 
minions, seeing no other issue of a war, but such as was likely to 
leave Prance their master by a French King of Spain at home, 
will not stay to submit to Prance till the war be ended, but will 
make their court early by throwing all their weight into that scale; 
which is enough soon to sink us. 

3dly. What a diversion will it be of our force necessary even 

for our own defence here at home, should we be sending royal 

fleets and armies into another world? 

4thly. Remember that all depends on the heartiness of 

the people of England in this war. They must know the cause 

for which they fight. 

*■ •* * * 

!N r ow, if we come again to divisions and partition-treaties, 



17 01] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBUEY, &c. 87 

there is no end of tins: the canse will be perplexed and confound- 
ed, the people amazed and dispirited, and once hearing but of a 
yielding in any degree to the French King in his late attempt 
for his grandson, they will say, as their way is, "they are be- 
trayed," and will afterwards'^be sullenly unactive. A great man 
of the traiterous Ministry now prevalent (to our great sorrow 
and dread) told the King before the opening of the Sessions, 
"That he knew the people of England, that they would never 
come up to a war." But the contrary is now seen, and I 
have given you and my worthy friends in Holland long since 
assurance of the contrary. 

The people of England will, if the Court will let them, engage 
in a war, and never yield, nor hear of yielding, whilst France 
is to have any thing to do with Spain. But if France be truck- 
led to, or should the Duke of Anjou be by our Court owned, 
(which God forbid), their spirit will sink, and things will be 
much altered for the worse. A more unfair representation never 
could have been gaiued than was by the Court this last election 
in favour of the Tory and French interest, which is one and the 
same; yet, for all this, fear not, if the King be resolved, he, nor 
you on the other side of the water, need not fear the resolutions 
of this representation, and least of all of that people they represent. 
My kind remembrances to all yours, and to my worthy friends. 
I am, as ever, yours. 

Lord Melford's * letter was most certainly authentic; and very 



The Earl of Melfort, the prime Councillor of the exiled 
King James. 



8 8 LETTEES OE LOCKE, [A. D. 

intelligible in the English, whatever it was in the translation; 

but by this time I guess you have seen it. 

The Art of Governing by Parties * was sent you by the 

author. 

The settlement of the Succession will go on well, and care 

will be taken to confirm and enlarge our Bill of Eights, in the 

same Act of Settlement. We wait . impatiently the coming of 

your fleet to our assistance; we are fitting out very fast. 

To Me. Eueley. 



LETTEE XLYIII. SHAETESB. to H. WILKINSON. 

WILKINSON, CHELSEA, MAECH 10TH, 1700-1. 

I received thine of the 5th, aud till this day have heard no- 
thing of the ship, which now 1 find is come into the river, by 
my receiving two letters from Mr. Eurley (of the 7th and 19th of 
last month). 

I am glad you take rightly what I so often and earnestly 
admonish you of; and that you understand how excellent a 
thing it is to recommend yourself by your good carriage to those 
who take care of you, and are your benefactors, and in the room 
of parents to you, but chiefly to recommend yourself to Him 
who is the great benefactor of all, and who has made His ser- 
vice to be itself the greatest blessing to us, besides what reward 



* Republished in 1757, 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 89 

He has promised; for what can be more happy than to lead a 
virtuous and sober life, if we consider how it is with those who 
live virtuously, and what can be more enjoyment than to live 
usefully to ourselves and others, by making ourselves through 
our industry and sobriety to be of use in the world, and esteemed 
by all that are good; therefore, remember that the greatest part 
of your duty to God is to fit yourself for good, and for all the 
services and good offices you are capable of, especially in the 
service of so good a master and mistress, who will instruct you 
in all that is for your good and advantage. 

AH our friends here are well, and every thing (I bless God) 
prospers with our family. My sister Hooper is brought to bed 
and has got a brave boy, which she is a nurse to. No more now, 
but my kind remembrances to the good family you are in. I re- 
main, your loving friend, 

Shaftesbury. 
Pray return my kind thanks to Mrs. Furley for her present 
of chesnuts &c. which Mr. Purley speaks of, and which I ima- 
gine may be come by this ship. "What is become of those 
you sent I cannot tell; you did not write the ship's name. Since 
I writ this, I have writ a letter to Mr. Furley, which I hope 
will come safe to him with this to you. 
To Mr. Wilkinson. 



90 LETTEES OE LOCKE, [A.D. 



LETTEE XLIX. SHAETESB. to EUELEY. 

mp,. furley, London, March lltli. 1701. 

By what I have been writing in the enclosed, I have no 
time left me to write any thing to yon, or to copy any of the 
news in the latter end of the letter to Mr. Hysterman, which 
I have therefore sent open to yon; and desire you would seal 
and send away (immediately after you have read it) to him at 
Amsterdam. Yon may communicate the contents by word of 
mouth to our s;ood friends Mynheer Yan Twede and Paats at 
Rotterdam; my best services to them and others who. are so hind 
as to remember me. This, with hind love to yourself and 
family, is all that haste will allow from your entire friend. 

A Bill is brought in the House of Commons for the fixing 
the Bishops to their sees, and hindering their removals, by 
which they depend on the Crown, and are made votes for the 
Court. 'Tis a dilemma: for, if they throw this Bill out of the 
House of Lords, they will next time be thrown out themselves. 
To Mr. Eueley. 



LETTEE L. SHAETESBUEY to EUELEY. 

MR. FURLEY, MARCH 25, 1701. 

I received yours with notice of your sending forward my 
letter to our friend at Amsterdam; bnt,having also writ you an 
account (the post after) of what passed in tha House of Lords 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBUEY, &c. 91 

in relation to their Address, which you seem to have heard by 
some other hand, I fear that letter of mine may have miscarried. 
As for those fears that are spread amongst you, of onr being 
likely to adandon Holland, and resolved on peace and submiss- 
ion, there is nothing more wrongly grounded, though I cannot 
say groundless; for I doubt not but the business of Friday last 
made great noise in Holland, as if we had lost some great 
point, though it was nothing, and no real trial of the parties 
for England or France; but of the parties for or against some 
particular persons of the late ministry who would have screened 
themselves under that vote, which was a side-wind justification, 
or at least a countenance of the Partition Treaty, for which 
some of the late Ministry were engaged. Since that they car- 
ried it further, so as to fix it on the late Lord Chancellor as a 
crime to have set the broad seal to that Treaty. 

In the mean time, by these exasperating things, that party 
make themselves but more desperate with the King, who is per- 
sonally reflected on and abused in these matters; and some of the 
hottest men shewing themselves thus partial to France in some of 
their speeches, where they inveigh so much against the manage- 
ment of the court, the effect of this is advantageous to us, by 
strengthening us and making them weaker with the people, and 1 
hope with the King, from whom they have all their strength; 
it being only his own ministry that obstructs the most vigorous 
resolutions which would be taken for a war against France, so 
that, when things are ripe, I cannot but assure myself the King 
will give the turn; for he lias all the sound part of England with 



92 LETTEES OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

him in this cause; and the resolution of the nation for war grows 
stronger and stronger. 

Depend upon it we gain ground apace, all people corne into 
us, and when the King has a mind to exert him self, he may do 
it fully with the whole strength of the nation. 

All that you hear of the coldness or backwardness of the 
people or Parliament is from the ministry only, and this is in 
the King's breast; so that those who fear nothing as to the King 
have nothing to fear either as to our people or Parliament. 

I think I mentioned in some former letter about Mr. Leers, 
that I had received none of those books from him which I heard 
were sent me; they were the continuation of Greevius and Grono- 
vius's Roman and Greek Antiquities. I never received more 
than what I brought out of Holland myself; if this be the contin- 
uation from thence, it is well: otherwise I desire to hear more 
from him. In haste, farewell; my service to all friends. 



LETTER LI. SHAFTESBURY to EURLEY. 

ME. FUBLEY, LONDON, APRIL 1, 1701. 

I received yours with the enclosed from my worthy friend 
your neighbour, to whom I have writ fully this post, and having 
but little time this night because of some letters I was obliged to 
wiite to some other friends in Holland, I got a part of one of 
those letters copied over, which I here enclose to you, it being 
impossible to give a fuller account of things to you than I have 
done in this, and in what I writ this post to your neighbour. 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUEY, &c. 93 

This enclosed was to Mr. Hystermann, to be communica ted by 
him to some friends who desired information from me of our Eng- 
lish affairs: particularly to one friend of his, a great man. But I 
desire you would take no notice of this, only if you think this 
worth communicating to our friends at Eotterdam, you may do 
it; but keep the writing in your own hands. 

My most hearty service to them all, at this time especially, 
that I, who am naturally so unactive, am working day and 
night for their service, and for the common interest of Holland 
and this country. 

On this union all depends. I hope things will go well not- 
withstanding their appearance. My dues to all your family, and 
believe me for ever yours. 

LETTEE LIT. SHAETESBUEY TO EUELEY. 

MR. FURLEY, LONDON, APRIL 19, 1701.. 

I have not yet heard, in answer to my last, at which time I 
writ also to Mr. Y. T., but I have received yours by Mr. Da- 
randa, with whom I am extremely glad of having had the op- 
portunity of being acquainted. 

I write this in haste, and late at night, to tell you of our af- 
fairs, how that at last our friends are given up as a peace offer- 
ing to the Tory party, who have promised all shall go smoothly 
and without opposition to the King, on these terms, of their 
disabling the late ministry from coming into place again. Ac- 
cordingly, yesterday they carried, by 10, their impeachment a- 
gainst Lords Soinmers, Oxford, and Halifax, and to-day an ad- 



94 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

dress to remove them from the King's presence and councils. 
All is done which they possibly can. do against them; nor do 
they design carrying things any further, having obtained their 
end, and this the King has consented to, so that he must now 
trust to the Tories for this session, which I hope will be the 
last of this Parliament. I believe it will have this effect; that, 
since the King will not dissolve this Parliament immediately, he 
will piece up matters for this session; and the Tories coming 
in to what they have promised, you will find that unanimity 
which the King desires so much and lays so much stress 
upon. 

And I doubt not but things will so work that he will be 
glad to be rid of them, and will be so soon after they rise, for 
England cannot have justice till this Parliament be dissolved. 

In the mean time it is remarkable that even in this Parlia- 
ment it is only by stratagem and arts that they turn off that 
spirit whirh is towards a war and vigorous maintenance of the 
cause; for even these accusations and impeachments are found- 
ed on a supposition of these men's having acted for the inter- 
est of Erance, the subject of their impeachment being for hav- 
ing advised the first partition treaty in 1608, where the elec- 
toral Prince was made heir to Spain; so that the cause against 
Erance is still more and more advanced, though we are unto- 
wardly diverted in onr means of prosecuting it. But, perhaps, 
you may see the House sit roundly to business, now this is over. 
The treaty they have promised to maintain carries all with it: 
they need only now immediately satisfy the present demands., 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 95 

and raise what is required with expedition; the rest will work of 
itself, and the war once begun, we shall come in totis viribus. 
All this in the Parliament is from the Kins; himself; he mis-lit 
do every thing, had he resolution.* The spirit of the people 
is greater and greater,they do not betray the common cause nor 
themselves, but if he betrays himself, what can we say or 
do? 

I am,as ever, yours: my love and service to all your family, 
and best respects and services to my worthy friends Mynheer 
Paats, Y. Tweede, &e. and to Mynheer Welaud, when you see 
him. I sent you lately an enclosed paper in a cover on which 
you will know my hand. Pray let me know if it came safe. 

LETTER LIII. SHAFTESBURY to FURLEY. 

me. FUBiiEY, London. May 6, 1701. 

I received your second enclosed letter of Lord Mollis, 
which is very apt and seasonable. Many tilings have been 
printed here in England of like nature, and have had their ef- 
fect; the nation is rightly disposed; they are not as they are re- 
presented abroad, and are only unhappy in being so ill under- 
stood. The people of England have not abandoned the com- 

* It will be observed throughout these letters, that the 
writer is an intemperate partizan, and like others of the same 
party,he speaks with an undue degree of freedom of the qualities 
and person of the King: a total want of humility and deference 
to rank and authority characterized all the Whiff writers of that 
period. 



96 LETTERS OF LOCKE, [A.D. 

mon cause, yet England has. How shall I explain this riddle? 
or does it need explanation? what has not the people of England, 
and even the Parliament,this veryParliament,done to shew their 
right intentions for a war, and their resolution to oppose the 
title of the new King of Spain? The Parliament long since re- 
jected the proposal of owning the Duke of Anjou with disdain. 
They did all and more than was asked them from the Court, 
yet the Duke of Anjou at last is owned, and a peace publicly 
declared for by those of the King's present ministry. Now 
let any man judge of us, what can any one expect we should 
do? the King of Spain, contrary to the sense of the nation and 
Parliament, is owned. 

The fleet is disarmed, and the big ships all sent into harbour. 
A peace is declared from Court as the settled resolution, and all 
things sound of the good correspondence and mutual friend- 
ship of our Court and the Court of Prance. What can people 
abroad expect that we should do? Should we declare war on 
those who are against a war abroad, when the King himself is 
thus represented? If we fall on his ministry, you say it is meant 
against himself; and if we let his ministry alone, they do the 
work of France, and force us to peace. I writ you in my last 
that the King had given up his friends, and now he has his 
cause. The first was recoverable, and I writ you with good as- 
surance upon it. Nor was I at all mistaken; all had gone well 
even after that sacrifice, if he himself had pleased; but when 
it was known that he had owned the Duke of Anjou, the adverse 
party had the field left to thcm,and they have used the King as 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUBY, &c. 97 

they pleased. The first thing they proceeded to was taking from 
him £100, 000 of his settled yearly revenue, and they 
may take what they think fit, for nobody will oppose the King 
in what he thinks fit to resign of his crown, since he has com- 
mitted himself to these men with an allowance to them to make 
themselves as popular as they desire at Ins expence. If this 
usage of the King does not move him, nothing will; and, though 
I speak freely now, I shall not afterwards, for the consequences 
to be drawn will be then beyond what I shall dare to write. In 
the mean time our friends have been so far active to-day in the 
House, as to call the ministry in question for the laying up the 
ships of war, and turning off the men, and they have appointed 
a committee to examine it. Besides this they have pushed on 
the Bill of succession, and carried it through the committee so 
that we shall now soon see it passed. As to your question to 
me about King James raising money without Act of Parlia- 
ment, it is most certain: it was the duties on coals and other cus- 
toms settled on King Charles for life, and which he collected 
before he called a Parliament, who afterwards settled it, without 
taking notice of the unlawful collection, which was the reason, 
I suppose, it was not taken notice of in the Prince of Orange's 
declaration. 

I have not time to write to Mr. Yan Twedde as I hoped this 
night. He may be assured that I rejoice at any opportunity 
of serving Mr. Y. Twedde, his son herein England. I beg 
my hearty service and respects to my other friends, particularly 
to Mr. Mink, whom you lately mentioned. Tliis with my love 



98 LETTEES OP LOCKE, [A.D, 

and friendship to jou and yours is all at present from yours. 

I saw your son Arn lately in Essex with Mr. Locke; he was 
very well and is much grown. Mr. Locke is as well as I have 
known him, only of late he has had a humour in his legs. 
I hope the lad Wilkinson does well, and if so, pray remem- 
ber me to him with kindness, and tell him that T received his 
letters and shall write to him when I have more time. 

LETTER LIV. SHAFTESBURY to EURLEY. 

mr. fukley, London, May 9, 1701. 

Since my last to you, by last post, in which I told you of 
the ill effect of the sad news of our Court's having owned 
the Duke of Anjou, we have seen some little spirit from 
the Court, as if we were not wholly to be given up: though 
Jiese late measures have dispirited all good men, and have 
well nigh put all our affairs into the hands of the adverse 
party, carrying all before them by the countenance and assist- 
ance of the King's own ministry. But yesterday we had a 
seeming hearty message from the King, and a most pathetic 
letter from the States, about the growth of Erance and their 
own danger. This matter was tins day debated in the House; 
immediately it was proposed that we should vote the sup- 
port of our allies, of Holland in particular, and of the liber- 
ty of Europe in general; and that we should also immedi- 
ately proceed to raise the supplies for the States as agreed 
by the antient treaty. 

The latter of this was soon yielded to by the adverse 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. ^G $9 

party, who found there was no contesting it. But the leaders 
Musgrave, Seamor, Shoar strenuously opposed the other part as 
to our allies Holland and Europe. Jack Howe, to do him 
justice, came off from them, and declared a war seemed now ne- 
cessary; the designs of Erance being so apparent, and Holland 
in such distress. This made the rest of that party withdraw from 
their opposition and the whole resolution, of assisting the 
King to support his allies abroad, to maintain the liberty of 
Europe, and of immediately providing the supplies promised 
the States by the treaty, was at last agreed to nemine contradi- 
cente, which will, I hope, give satisfaction abroad. To-morrow 
we go on the same consideration in the House of Lords, and 
shall, 1 hope, make some considerable resolutions, which will 
both lead the way to the Commons, and give encouragement to 
the people, who are every day better and better disposed. 

But now I must hint to you a thing of great importance for 
you to transact, if you approve of it. You must know then 
that, there being few of us of the country party here in Eng- 
land, who have any good correspondence or any acquaint- 
ance with those of the same^principles and interest in Hol- 
land, and such as these being apt to judge of Holland as 
if influenced by our Court here, nothing that comes from 
thence has so much credit as when it comes from some of the 
honest party, and those out of the Government. 

All our young men are drawn away by the specious actions 
of these present managers, who seem so much to promote a 
domestic liberty, and under that pretence are bringing on a 



100 LETTEES OE LOCKE, [A. D. 

foreign and universal tyranny. Some of these I happen to 
be acquainted with, and they know I have an acquaintance, 
and some small credit with those of the right party in Holland; 
and by this means I am able to do some little service, but 
it would be much more if some help were added, and that 
some of those gentlemen had the sense of our friends abroad 
more immediately communicated to them. Eor instance, Lord 
Paulet,* well known amongst you, is a man of great influ- 
ence, and is a little entangled in the nets I tell you of, 
the other party making it their chief game to work on such 
men as these, who have great interest both in Country and 
Parliament. A letter from some of his acquaintance of Eotter- 
dam (Mr. Van Twedde suppose, or any such,) might be of 
use; or, if he were mentioned in any letter of mine which 
I might communicate to him, and in which he saw himself ad- 
dressed to. 

There is a great and worthy young man who has sig- 
nalized himself in this last debate by speaking beyond all 
others for the interest of Holland, the Protestant Beligion, and 
Europe. It is Lord Paget' s son, Mr. Paget, t well known, as 
I think I remember, to Mr. Elink. Might not he someway 
find occasion to write to him, and compliment him on his no- 
ble service? 

* John, fourth Lord P., and afterwards (1706) first Earl 
and K. G. 

f Henry, afterwards (in 17 14) the first Earl of Uxbridge, 
was for many years Knight in Parliament for Staffordshire. 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAETESBURY, &c. 101 



LETTER LY. SHAFTESBURY TO EURLEY. 

MR. FTJRLEY, LONDON, May 23, 1701. 

I received yours of the 24th (your stile) as well as what you 
writ me since by a particular hand of the 27th, together with 
one from Mr. V. Tedde, to whom I return my hearty thanks, 
and would do it in a letter to himself, but that I have no occa- 
sion that offers. 

As to public affairs, which remain still in the same state 
in the main, our great expectation is to see what the King will 
do at the rising of this Parliament, for it is apparent that if he 
has a mind to have a Parliament that will vigorously carry on 
a war, he may now have one by instantly dissolving this, which 
was chosen when the nation was in the dark, and deluded 
by the Court itself against the interest of the Government; 
yet the voice of the people has so overcome this very Parlia- 
ment, that they have been forced to follow the King in what- 
soever measure he was willing to lead them; and although the 
other day they took from him £. 100, 000 of his revenue 
for life, yet they have given it him back again in the House 
this day with interest; I say with interest only as a common 
expression; for in reality they have given him what will be 
equal to £. 100, 000 per annum more than he had settled 
on him before. The thing itself, as well as the manner of 
its being given, is too long for me to tell you theparticu- 



102 LETTEES OE LOCKE, [A. D. 

lars of, only in the main it was thus compromised. The Tories 
first struck off the £. 100, 000, which the "Whigs would not 
oppose, because they desponded of the King's intentions as to a 
war. But, since the letter of the States General, and the steps tak- 
en by the King, which have raised hopes of his being broken 
withErance, and resolved to defend the cause, this has made the 
honest party more active for the King, so that the Tories and 
present ministry, finding that the Eang was able to fetch his 
hundred thousand pounds back again, made a compromise; and 
to wash off the disgrace which they incurred with the King be- 
fore, and gain also some merit foi the future, they of themselves 
did what I tell you this day, and it went thus advantageously 
for the king without any division, questions, or so much as any 
one speaking against it. 

More I could say to shew you how much the King has all 
things in his power if he will exert himself, and a dissolution 
now would set us on a right foot. The Succession Bill is (I thank 
God ) passed both Houses and ready for the royal assent. I am 
as ever yours. 



LETTER LYI. SHAETESBUEY to EUELEY. 

hr. furley. Chelsea., June 20th, 1701. 

I have been prevented several posts one after another, or 

I should not have been thus long silent; but you know how 

we are engaged in business, especially since the division of 

the two Houses, which all good people are pleased with, 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUBY, &c. 103 

since it is like to be a means of ridding us of such a danger- 
ous Rouse of Commons, who will be no sooner up than all 
England will be ready to petition the King to dissolve them, 
they being as much hated for their hypocrisy in the last vote 
against Erance, after their keeping back things so long, as for 
their plain and open injustice against so many of their fellow- 
subjects, and against those in particular whom they persecute 
violently without design or intention of fairly trying them, but 
whom the Lords will injustice therefore acquit, as they already 
have done my Lord Sommers. 

The King had the happiest opportunity in the world now in his 
hands of dissolving this Parliament, and of having another chos- 
en of a quite different sort by the dissatisfied people; who could 
not have been imposed upon, had not the party obtained of the 
King such a speech as he last made, approving (or at least seem- 
ing to approve) all their proceedings; so that, covering themselves 
under that royal approbation, and then coming to a sham vote 
against the exorbitant power of Erance, they have done much by 
these artifices to blind the people, and set themselves right in 
their opinion; but I hope this may yet fail them; for their unrea- 
sonable and unjust quarrel with the House of Lords (who have 
gained great reputation of late, and are favorites with the people), 
will make it almost impracticable for the King to call this same- 
Parliament together again, a dissolution being the only way to 
put an end to these feuds. And I have absolved my paradox, 
that good people wished well to our divisions. 

I received yours by the Transilvanian Gnteelman, who I be- 



104 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

lieve is gone to the Universities as he said he designed; for, he 
having been desirons to see our Parliament, I had an opportuni- 
ty now of letting him see onr greater pomp which is at a Lord's 
Trial, but I heard not of him at his lodgings. Young Mr. 
Yan Twedde I took care of, and placed him with some friends 
who could inform lnm of all. I beg my humble service to Mr. 
Yan Twedde himself, and all your good neighbours my worthy 
friends. I am of you and yours a sincere snd hearty friend. I 
hope the lad Harry does well. 



LETTER LYII. LOCKE TO SIR H. SLOANE. 

Sir, Oates, 14 July, 01, 

The inclosed paper I carried to town with me when I 
was lately there, on purpose to put in your hands to print 
it or otherwise as you should think fit. It was writ by Mr. 
Benjamin Eurley of Rotterdam, to his son here in England, 
and by him communicated to me. It is a remarkable story 
and he that writes it is a man of that credit that you may 
depend on it to be true. "Whether it be of the kind you 
put into the Philosophical Transactions, you know best. Young 
Mr. Eurley is now at Mr. Joseph Wright's, a merchant liv- 
ing near London-stone in Canon street, if you desire any further 
information concerning the boy. 

I am sorry I came not home early enough to my lodging when 
you did me the honour to call there, and stay some time in ex- 
pectation of me. I would willingly have had a little more con* 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAPTESBUHY, &c. 105 

versation with you whilst I was in town. My little stay kept 
me in a perpetual hurry whilst I was there. I hope to make 
myself reparation by a speedy return thither, and a longer a- 
bode there, if my lungs will consent; and then I promise myself 
a fuller enjoyment of your company. I am, Sir, your most hum- 
ble and obedient servant, J. Locke, 

For Dr. Sloane, at his house in Bloomsbury Square, London. 



LETTEE LVIII. SHAFTESBURY to EUELEY, 

mr purley, St. Giles's, July 21, 1701. 

I received your extreme kind, sociable,and friendly letter, 
in .which your son Mr. Benjohan and Harry had their part. 

By all accounts we have reason to hope well of the King's 
good resolutions against the common enemy, and have reason to 
bless Providence for the glorious success of the Imperialists un- 
der Prince Eugene in Italy. 

Our part on this side of the water is now only to animate 
our people the best we can in this interval of Parliament, that 
they may be prepared on a new election to choose the worthiest 
men, or in case of the continuance of the present Parliament 
(which we all pray against) to continue to oppose them every 
way by Addresses, Petitions, &c. and force them into their duty, 
as you see they did in some measure by the help of the Lords 
at the ending of the last Sessions, when they began a little to 



106 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

change their note, the voice of the people being so high 
in their ears. 

I have some private assurance that there is a secret sum 
remitted monthly from us to Italy to support the Imperial- 
ists. Our Countries long for a speedy dissolution; but if it 
be delayed till this spirit and resentment of the people be 
abated, and till the offenders by their arts have soothed the 
people, begged pardons, disguised themselves, and acted new 
parts, the advantage will be lost to the honest country in- 
terest. 

I had a letter from Mr. Toland, to which I answered this 
post. I am sorry, but not surprized, that he should not take 
his measures more justly, so as not to offend or disoblige 
my Lord Macklesfield iu his present character ana circum- 
stances.'* I beg you to acquit me to my Lord with all ho- 
nour and respect, as you have opportunity, either by word 
or letter. I beg too my kind and respectful remembrance 
to Mynheer Paats, Yan Twedde, Elinck, &c. of your town, 
and most particularly to my friends of your own houshold, 
good Mrs. Eurley and your sons; and last of all with my 
kind wishes to Harry for his doing well and pleasing you, 
his master and good friend. I should be mighty glad, for 
his improvement, (if you approved it) to be at the charge of 
a Prencli master for him, to put him in a way of learning that 
language so necessary for him. Of this I shall hear from you in 
your next, and remain your faithful friend as ever, Shaftesbury. 

*See hereafter Letter LXII. 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUBY,&c. 107 



LETTEELfX. SHAETESBUEY to EUELEY. 

St. Giles's, Aug. 20 [1701]. 
I received yours of the 16th and another by the post fol- 
lowing, both which have brought me very agreeable news: 
and we have a rumour here in the country of a yet greater 
advantage of the Imperialists, which we must stay till tomor- 
row's post to know whether true or false. 

In the mean time I find your fears answerable to mine; 
for, should the Erench Court be humbled so far as to offer 
the admission of the Emperor's Minister, and treat of a 
partition, I should think all were likely to go to ruin; for 
as I have from the beginning insisted to you, so I still do, 
that it were better for Europe to sit still and suffer the most 
horrid indignities under this present settlement of Spain, in 
hopes of seeing it disunited from Erance either by time and 
in a natural way, or by a more favourable opportunity for a 
revolution, rather this, I say, which is hazardous enough, than 
by treaty of their own making abandon for ever, and give up the 
just title and interest of the House of Austria, and for the sake 
of a few dominions, which may be called a satisfaction, confirm 
their own ruin by tying the knot faster, and necessitating such 
a union of Spain and Erance as must end not only in the taking 
back those foolish pledges, but the liberty of the whole world. 

In short, Europe has been supported by the balance of the 
Houses of Austria and Bourbon. The House of Austria hav- 



108 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

inghad Spain has yet been an unequal balance. Now losing Spain, 
it either loses it to a third Power, which will at least be sepa- 
rated from and have no engagements with Erance (and even thus, 
the game is still but more hazardous for Europe); or if it loses 
it to a power which by nature and necessity must be the same 
with Erance, who sees not the consequence to be certain ruin? 
But, altho' it may be thought that there may be room to hope 
a disunion of Spain and Erance under the two branches of the 
House of B.; yet, if Spain be so disabled as to be no way a support 
to itself, and so disobliged by the Austrian Eamily and by Earope 
as to have its darling provinces torn from it, and be thus left na- 
ked and forlorn, what can be expected either from nature or rea- 
son, policy and passion, but that they must wholly fling them- 
selves on Erance, and endeavour if possible (what is easily possi- 
ble) to bring their monarchies even under one line and person, 
hoping, as they may well hope and presume with certainty, that 
in another generation the seat of the then universal monarchy 
will not be at Versailles or Marly, but Madrid. Thus, having no 
news, I can only send you reasonings and opinions on that news 
you send me. We lose ground sadly by the delay of the dissolu- 
tion, if the King resolves there shall be one. 

My dues to all my friends, chiefly of your own houshold. 

Earewell. 

Your son Am is well with me here at St. Giles's, and will 
write to you himself. 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 109 

LETTEE LX. SHAFTESBURY to EURLEY. 

MR. EURLEY, ST. GILES* S, Aug. 26, 1701. 

Yesterday your son Arent went from hence after having done 
me the kindness to stay with me a week and a day or two over. T 
would not earnestly press him to a longer stay, since his time ap- 
pointed by you was so short, and that he was desirous to see Ox- 
ford, whither I have taken care of conveying him well, he being 
from thence to return by the stage-coach to London (as he tells 
me), so to Colchester, and so to you; but I should be glad it were 
otherwise, and that you were to come to him, at least so as to fetch 
Mm over, that you might see your friends here after a long ab- 
sence. I think you need on no account to be concerned or doubt- 
ful of your son Arent's carriage, for he seems to be of a tho- 
roughly sober, modest, and good disposition; and I hope he will 
be worthy of so good a father. Things with us grow 
worse and worse through the delay of the dissolution,, 
which all good people hoped would be pretty soon, but 
now think despairingly of. This gives still further advantage to 
the treacherous party to represent the actions of the leading party 
in the House of Commons as agreeable to the King, who, if he 
seem to approve their conduct, the nation cannot disapprove 
or show their dislike: the King, instead of discountenancing the 
party, has given great countenance to them, and seems still to 
court them, which must be fatal to him if it go on. 



110 LETTEES OE LOCKE, [A. 

Here in our country particularly, Sir Edward Seymour"* 
Las one of the greatest grants of deer that has been known 
out of the forest near us, where he hunts them in great 
parade and pomp, and has a rendezvouz of all his party. 

At Devonshire Assizes they got a Grand Jury of their 
own creatures to draw up something by way of address, in 
contradiction to what several of the honest counties of Eng- 
land have addressed for; viz. a new Parliament. And thus, 
whilst the King countenances and assists his enemies against 
his friends, his enemies must needs prevail. Our fleet is wind- 
bound in Torbay; the wind having been several days, and still 
continaing, directly contrary to them, and blowing pretty hard; 
we all hope it is designed there shall be some action; but this in- 
activity at home makes us fearful of the same abroad, and that 
vigorous measures, which are the only that can save us, are not 
like to be used; which, seeing the success Providence has hitherto 
given to the Emperor in Italy, makes us feel so much the more 
regret. If a dissolution be intended and not soon executed with 
spirit and resolution, (the King declaring his mind freely, and 
acting cordially for his friends), we shall have as ill a choice per- 
lhaps as we had before; the honest people of England being de- 
uded aud made to judge amiss by the behaviour of the Court. 
On the other side, if this Parliament sit again, how can we expect 
good from them? or if this House of Commons mended a little, 
yet how will matters be adjusted between them and the House 

* See hereafter, Letter LXIY. 



. 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUEY, &c. Ill 

of Peers, which a dissolution will bury in oblivion and put an 
end to? In short our adversaries have, after 12 years'' mistake 
learnt their right game: they act the Commonwealth's 
men, and herd with us: the tares are in our wheat: we 
want a secretion, and nothing can do this but a right 
Test: and that is ao abjuration, and oath of fidelity to this 
new settlement and Protestant Line. This left voluntary and 
not enforced will be a national index. The King may dis- 
solve this Parliament, and have this if he pleases, and afterwards 
have all he can desire. But I must end with respects to all 
friends: believe me as ever, Yours. 



LETTEE LXL SHAETESBUEY to EUELEY. 

Sept. 15, 170.1. 

I am two in your debt; for the first I thank both yourself 
and my worthy friend Mr. Elink, to whom I am already 
so much indebted, both for Ins friendship so kindly afforded 
me in Holland, and so favourably coutinued in his remembrance 
of me and correspondence with me through you. I beg yon 
to assure him of my sincere gratitude and wishes of being able 
to make any suitable return. Your last was of the gloriou s 
news of the success of the Imperialists at Chiari, which I 
hope in God ere this time is well proved by Prince Eugene. 

After those wise and just fears which you expressed to 
me about a treaty, the news of the Prince of Wales's title, 
set up by Erance, and by it the apparent breach of the 



112 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

Ruswick treaty, with other things as to our trade, am- 
ounting to a declaration of war upon us, all this, I say, 
coming together has been of great comfort to me, and the 
certainty of a league offensive and defensive between us and 
the Emperor has added still more, and makes me hope that 
fatal step of peace is over. 

Again we have a fresh and noble opportunity of a new 
Parliament, if the King will lay hold of it; but the opposite 
party, seeing their weakness, and the current of the nation 
against them, have agreed together rather than hazard a dis- 
solution so fatal to them, that they will engage to do every 
thing for the King winch he shall ask of them. I pray 
"God he be not abused by them, as he surely will be if he 
hearkens to them, and lets them sit again once more: for 
they will put the nation into a flame, re-kindle the animosi- 
ties of the last Sessions, drive on their malicious persecut- 
ions of private men with greater revenge since their defeat, in 
short they will embroil both the houses, and endeavour to 
ruin both our Constitution and Government at once. Eor 
my own part I foresee the inevitable ruin, if the King dis- 
trusts himself and resolves again to meet this unhappy Par- 
liament, which he brought upon himself, and which the nation 
groans under, and must suffer by, if he will not deliver 
them and himself from them. The case is self-evident: if 
he will give himself up and hearken to a treacherous and 
destructive peace, this is a suitable policy: if he means war 
and safety for himself, it cannot be effected thus, and we 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 11$ 

who cannot retrieve his disgrace shall be unwilling to go up to 
be witnesses of it, and so shall remain in our countries without 
hope, and expecting ruin. The King being to be soon here, 
we shall know our doom. But we hear that in Holland our 
friends have been unsuccessful in their instances with him to 
dissolve the Parliament, for which he has now the most favour- 
able opportunity. 

I have heard from your son Arent of his safe arrival in town. 
I have a piece by me in manuscript of a very honest, and no 
wonder therefore if I say poor, churchman, concerning Church 
Communion, which was never seen but by myself. 'Tis short, 
and I had resolved to send it by your son, but for- 
got to give it him at going away; however, if he goes not 
away from town till I have a convenience to send him 
from hence, he will bring it to you: otherwise send me 
word by what hand I shall send it when you have any good 
opportunity. "When you have read it you will send me word 
how you like it. 

LETTER LXII. SHAFTESBURY to EURLEY. 

MR. FTJRLEY, St. GlLEs's, 29 SEPT.1701. 

I received both yours of the 27 th and this of the 4 tii of 
October, with notice of the receipt of my last, when Lord 
Macclesfield* was with you. 

The late behaviour of the Court of Erance in setting up a 

* Charles Gerard the second Earl of Macclesfield of that 
family, and a Colonel in the army, was sent Ambassador to 



114 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

King of England, and falling on our trade, with other circum- 
stances of the highest provocation for dissolving this Parliament, 
that it will be beyond human apprehension if it be not laid hold 
on instantly, and I again and again repeat it to you and fore- 
tell that nothing but this can set us on a right bottom,beginning 
with an abjuration of this pretended title, so formidably set up 
and supported, which if the malignant and Tory party are able 
either to throw out, or not being able to throw out,shall in an- 
other way defeat it, as they did the Association, by inforcing 
and making it penal, so that the whole party came in on the 
principle of force and constraint under a King de facto; in this 
case you will see a total disturbance in our affairs ere long, 
however promising they may look at the beginning of the Sessi- 
ons of such a Parliament as this,if this continues, who will not 
fail to promise enough at the beginning as they have, to my 
certain knowledge, laid their scheme, and then break all and 
embroil the Houses towards the end, that all may be defeated, 
and supplies and measures rendered ineffectual. This I entreat 
you and friends to take notice of and remember. But on the 
other side 1 have good hopes and full assurance if there be but 
a new Parliament instantly called: and this may sit and do 
business as soon as the old, or within a very few days later. 

the Court of Hanover in 1701 with the Order of the Garter 
and congratulations on the establishment of the Succession, 
in favour of that family. He died soon after his return, 
and only six days after this letter was written, Oct. 5, 1701. 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY,&c. 115 

Pray be pleased to take care, yourself, of this packet of books 
from Mr. Leers, it being the last, as I take it, of the remain- 
ing tomes of the Thesaur. Antiq. of Grsevius; the former 
parts were taken so much care of that, Mr. Leers' correspondents 
being then in Ireland, and I not knowing how to apply to 
him, part of my tomes were sold, which he is to make good 
to me as he has promised. 

So pray pay Mr. Leers, and with my service to him, ho- 
ping he has given me well chosen exemplaries. You may 
draw the money for this and the rest on Wilkinson's ac- 
count, allowing time for me, now that I am out of town, to 
sign the bill and send it to be paid to your correspondent. 

I thank you for your constant information of things a- 
broad, and beg you would make my excuses this post to 
Mr. Yan Twedde for his most kind and acceptable letter 
which I cannot answer by this, which, with my most hearty 
service to him, Mynheer Paats, Mr. Kink, and friends, 
chiefly your friends and family, is all from yours faithfully. 



LETTER LXIII. SHAFTESBURY to EURLEY. 

MR. FURLEY, St. GILESES, OCT. THE 18tll, 1701. 

So many foreign mails came in lately, after being kept back by 
contrary winds, that by this post I have received three of yours al- 
together, and have little time to answer them as I would do, un- 
less I would defer, which I cannot do,the acquainting you of the 



116 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.B. 

receipt of your bill on me to Mr. Limbourg, for £68 sterling, 
which I have sent him back endorsed to receive it presently of 
my goldsmith in town. 

All that I can answer you as to public affairs is by refer- 
ring you to what I wrote long since at the opening of this scene 
of affairs, particularly when I writ in answer to a proposal of 
our seizing any part of the West Indies, aud dividing the Span* 
ish monarchy that way. This was of all other sort, in my judg- 
ment, the most pernicious way of partitioning: it being neither 
the true way to wealth nor for the security of our liberties; but 
above all a most certain foundation of dissension between the two 
great people of the world,* on whose strict union and friendship, 
which God Almighty for ever preserve, depends the safety 
of the world and the preservation of all that is good or estim- 
able amongst mankind. 

In the next place: let what will be said of the last partition, 
I am sure of this, that no partition which gives the bulk of Spain 
with the West Indies again to the House of Austria, can be ab- 
solutely fatal to Earope. But whatever partition leaves the 
House of Austria unrestored, and the bulk of Spain in a French 
Prince's hands, is and must be absolutely and undeniably fatal 
to Europe. Therefore, as much as I detest the false policy 
cowardice, or treachery of those who speak of peace at a time 
when we must fight or be oppressed, yet still I aver that it is 



* His Lordship means the English and Dutch. 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBUEY, &c. 117 

better to submit now early and wait for what Providence may 

Work for us by a division of the courts and interests of France 

and Spain when unmolested and left to themselves, rather than, 

after a war begun upon them, to unite them more indissolubly 

at last, conclude a peace which shall leave the Duke of Anjou 

on the Throne of Spain, and France in the consequence master 

of the world, whatever may be foolishly and weakly hoped by 

the advantage of a partitioning of some poor tracts of land, which 

will be soon regained again when the great confederacy is by a 

peace dissolved and the ports of Spain, the Streights, and West 

Indies, left in the power and management of France. But, if 

the partitioning be not to allow the least to France, but, giving 

the bulk to the Archduke, the true King of Spain, the rest be 

for some other powers, princes or states, to engage them in this 

grand alliance, and to tear more from France than even what 

she has got in the last age, then do I like and heartily applaud 

this partitioning. 

This we in England have a true sense of, and I assure 

you it is far from being the spirit of England to aim 

at any thing for themselves abroad, which never can be but 

fatal to their liberties they so well love; and to shew you 

their sense in a few words and I think it cannot be better 

expressed, I will conclude with transcribing you the words 

which my brother* yesterday carried up in an address to 

* The Hon. Maurice Cooper; he sat in six Parliaments for 
Weymouth and Melcombe, and in 1701 was chosen for Wilt- 



118 LETTEES OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

the King from the Corporation he serves for, and which in re- 
spect of the public has the advantage of sending as many 
Members as London itself, for he is one of four. The words 
are these: 

"And we hope that your Majesty, in a just resentment 
of this attempted usurpation (of the Erench King) will be en- 
abled soon, by the assistance of your Parliament, to call in 
question those other titles he has set up in Europe, and by 
restoring the House of Austria and Crown of Spain, to put an 
end to his usurpations over those nations, and to the hope 
he has of being thereby master of the trade and liberty of these 
Kingdoms, and all the neighbouring world/' 
My respects to yours and all our friends. 



LETTEELXIY. SHAETESBUEY to EUKLEY. 

mr. purley, Chelsea, Dec. 29, 1701. 

I believe you hardly wonder at my silence this last month, 
when you consider how great a scene has opened for the pub- 
lic, in which I was called to be so great an actor, having 
strongly obliged myself to be so; for as, on one hand, you 
know well, 1 was determined to retire absolutely from all pub- 
lic affairs, and never to have stirred out of my privacy in the 
country, had the King persisted in the resolution of keeping 



shire, as is alluded to in a subsequent letter. 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUEY, &c. 119 

the last Parliament and ministry; so, on the other hand, having 
been at one time almost the single man alive that peremptorily- 
insisted on a dissolution, and having tried all along both by my 
friends here and in Holland, to evince the necessity of it, and 
to bring it to effect, in which perhaps I may have been some 
instrument, I had the strongest obligation on earth upon me to 
act with vigor, as I have done since the opportunity the King 
has most happily given us, and it has pleased Providence to 
bless me with great success, for having my province, and that 
a very hard one, in two counties long in the hands of the most 
inveterate of the adverse party,I notwithstanding carried all that 
I attempted in both. In one of them, viz. Wilts, which my 
brother and his friend represent, instead of two inveterate To- 
ries, we have there mended the elections by eight, which is a ma- 
jority of sixteen in Parliament: and in Dorsetshire, my own 
county, we have gained also considerably. My friend Mr. 
Tren chard being in the room of a constant ill vote for the coun- 
ty, and my friend Sir John Cropley being also brought in by 
me at the place of my name, Shaftesbury, which was ever entire- 
ly in their hands since my grandfather's death, but which I 
have now entirely recovered, and made zealous. And as a to- 
ken that the King himself is right, as we would wish, he yes- 
terday gave me most hearty thanks for my zeal and good ser- 
vices on this occasion, and this before much company, which is a 
sufficient declaration against Sir Edward Seymour * and that 

* " The ablest man of his party, " says Burnet, " was Seymour, 
who was the first Speaker of the House of Commons that was 



120 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A J). 

party, to whom my opposition was persona], and who himself in 
person, and by his relations, opposed me every where in the 
elections, though, I thank God, they were every where defeated. 

I have thoroughly, and as a friend, considered of the con- 
cern of your son Arent, and though 1 could have given you 
but little encouragement before, I think I may give it you now, 
depending on this happy turn of the King and Administration, 
which being as it formerly was and seemed likely to continue, 
what hope could there be for any of us or our friends? I will 
advise further about it with mine and your friends, for you 
may trust me that I am not indifferently, your friend, 

Shaftesbury. 

My kind respects to all yours, and to friends, particularly 
Mr. Yan Twedde, for whom I truly grieve. 

LETTER LXY. SHAFTESBURY to EURLEY. 

MR. FURLEY, CHELSEA, J AN. 6, 1701-2. 

I writ you but a few posts since, and have now received 
yours of the 10th, your style. 

I writ you concerning your son: but confess 1 feel the 
strength of your objection as to the change of these friends in 
employment by whose interest we may hope to have him intro- 
duced; for already to our misfortune we see the King beginning 
to hesitate, and because of the ill success in a Speaker (which 

not bred to the law." He was the leader of the impeachment 
against Lord Chancellor Clarendon, — His grandson became the 
eighth Duke of Somerset. 



1701] SIDNEY, r SHAFTESBURY. &c. 121 

he owes wholly to his own false servants, viz. Sir George 
Rooke, the Ohurchills, and others of their side, who acted 
violently and spoke against his interest,) he now stops in the 
midst of his work, and leaves these vipers and their brood still 
within his bowels. But what most of all astonishes me is, to 
hear from you that such men as Mr. Hysterman and others 
whom he converses with, and are the best of our friends in 
Holland, should at this time of day join in those fatal counsels, 
and wish that measures should be still kept with that malig- 
nant and inveterate party that are enemies to us by principle, 
and are in nothing more plainly distinguished from us than by 
their mortal hatred to Holland; where I am sorry they should 
have any to plead for them, though I am satisfied that the 
first unhappy turn of the King towards that sort immediately 
after we set the Crown on his head in spite of their teeth, was 
owing to some of that nation, who were as little friends to the 
true interest of that as of ours. But I always hoped that the 
Holland Whig party and friends of liberty (such as Mr. Hys- 
terman and his friends) better knew, or at least in time would 
come better to know, their friends here and who they were, 
that on the one side only could support, and on the other side 
could never but supplant this our present Government. 

I am glad you like the advice of Wiltshire to my brother; 
'twas signed by a mighty body of Gentry who appeared for 
him and, his friend who is chosen with him, and it was first 
drawn up by a ceitain good friend of yours and his. I first 
moved an abjuration in the counties, and induced many to 



122 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

give it (as you have seen the town of Shaftesbury) in their in- 
structions, and I have now opened it in Parliament, and to- 
morrow we bring in the Bill into the House of Lords, who 
have addressed the King in a second Address for the dethro- 
ning the usurper of Spain '"and restoring the House of 
Austria. 

I know not if Mr. Hysterman has communicated to you 
some propositions which I hastily drew up, and sent to a 
friend to have finished, called "Paradoxes of State: " if they 
are made public, I will send you them. 

I am now, on my own account and my friend Sir John 
Cropley's, to desire your care of a young gentleman (who needs 
it), a younger brother of a worthy gentleman our friend, one 
Mr. Micklethwait. The lad is to go to school to learn French 
and merchant's accounts; but it is feared he will not do well at 
any school where there are English lads. What yon may lay 
out for him will be answered by Sir John Cropley and his own 
brother, and be an obligation to them as to myself. 
My respects to yours and all my friends. I am 

Sincerely yours. 
Pray remember me to Harry, to whom I writ some lines 
(tell him) the same post I writ last to you. 

We have had two divisions to try our strength in the 
House of Commons, and are considerably superior. I shall 
send you as usual some of our English country fare (I mean 
our brawn), which I hope will come better to you this time 
than it did last Christmas, and prove better. 



170]] SIDNET, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 123 



LETTER LXYI. SHAFTESBURY TO EURLEY, 

MR. ETJRLEY, CHELSEA, EEB. 22, 1701. 

I received yours of the 11th and that of the 25th since, 
which you writ me of the death of that worthy person Mr. 
John de Witt, whose loss I much bemoan. I did not write to 
you from the country because I was just coming up to the Par- 
liament, and could better inform you of affairs when there. 
And till now I have waited to see whether my opinions delive- 
red to you of the Parliament, (I mean the House of Commons) 
were true or not. But the day before yesterday it was plainly 
made out that the honest party were prevalent, and much su- 
perior (more than ever they yet were) to their adversaries. 
The first trial of the House was by the question some days 
since whether they should insert in their vote the words relating 
to the Peace of Europe, which was carried in the affirmative. 
The explanation of this came out more fully the day before yes- 
terday, for at this time the high church party openly proposed 
the owning the Duke of Anjou, but the proposal was rejected 
with so much scorn, that it came not to the vote; but instead 
of it they voted what you see in the prints of uniting with the 
Dutch in measures for the common safety of both nations, and 
had not the Court stopped it (a thing miraculous,) it had gone 
further, so as to have exhoitel the King to all manner of strict 



IU LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

alliances with the Dutch, for the same good ends, and in oppo- 
sition to the power of Erance. But a minister of state (Sir 
Charles Hedges the Secretary, who was also an active minister 
under King James in the Ecclesiastical Court, &c.) stood up 
and signified to the House that no more w T as asked or desired 
than to perform that particular Treaty mentioned in the memo- 
rial; so the vote of the House went no further. In the mean 
while, though all the power of the Court was used to damp the 
spirits of the House, every thing was spoken and carried highly 
against Erance,and with the greatest respect and affection im- 
aginable to the interest of Holland, notwithstanding the invete- 
racy of the Tory party. 

And now pray see the virtue that is still left in this nation, 
were we under an Administration to exert it. Here was a 
Parliament dissolved with all the disadvantages on earth, to 
ruin the country party, and a new one called under a new min- 
istry in the most fatal conjuncture imaginable, and with all its 
arts and corruptions set on foot to ruin us, and gain a Parli- 
ament fit for this treacherous ministry, friends to Erance and 
King James; the King himself not awaked, but still managing 
with the same Ministers who openly side with Erance and 
favour the Jacobite interest; yet, notwithstanding this, we have 
strength enough in the Parliament to carry every question against 
the Tories (who have had the forming of this Parliament,) 
against the Ministry (who are Tory, and have been lately po- 
pular for opposing the Court,) against the Court, and even 
against the King himself, wlnlst he is thus against himself. Ne- 



1701] bll>i\HiI, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 125 

ver Parliament was more ready to do so for him to the utmost, 
and if he be resolved to do for himself, and put himself out of 
Trench handsale has all England with him, but what he intends 
God knows; who alone truly knows the hearts of Prin- 
ces. 

My kind remembrance to friends, and to all yours. I am 
as ever. There are many difficulties in that list you desire of 
me, but I will see what is possible. 



LETTER LXVII. SHAFTESBURY to EURLEY. 

MR. EURLEY. CHELSEA, EEB. 27tll, 1701-2. 

I have waited some time in expectation of that letter and 
concern which was to come to me by Mr. Sommars's hands, but 
as yet [ have not seen him, and now can no longer keep si- 
lence, having so good an account to give you of what passed 
yesterday in the House of Commons. 

It was a Committee of the whole House, so that the chief 
resolution, which was in the negative, and so thrown out, will 
not be reported to the House, and is therefore not printed in 
the Yotes. It will be necessary for you to know, in the first 
place, that last Thuvsday was se'nnight the malignant party, 
having gone into a Committee upon the privileges of the House 
of Commons, as a handle to begin by, without any great oppo- 
sition, carry three resolves against the matters that were asser- 
ted in the late pamphlets, particularly that of " Jura Populi 



126 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

Anglicani," whicli that party were highly provoked by. Ha- 
ving done this, they then proceeded to an attempt against the 
more public voice of the people, viz, the addresses, and by one 
vote would have cut off at once the antientest and greatest of 
the English privileges by the question which they long insis- 
ted on, viz, " That the promoting of any addresses to his Ma- 
jesty, advising him to dissolve a Parliament, was seditious, " &c. 
After this, had they carried this, thay were to have fallen upon 
all those brave instructions and advices given to the Members 
newly chosen, which you have heard of and read; for this they 
threw at furiously in their debates. But they were far from 
carrying this question, and seeing plainly that their strength 
failed them, they withdrew their question, not daring to put 
it, as we would have had them, and could have forced them 
after so long a debate, but that they found a way to break up 
the Committee abruptly and so saved themselves. This occa- 
sioned our side to demand that, against the next Thursday, 
(which was yesterday), the same Committee of the whole House 
which had an instruction to consider of the privileges of the 
House of Commons might also have instruction to consider as 
well of the privileges of the Commons themselves and people of 
England. This gave a check to them and the party then pre- 
tended they had enough, desired our friends to forbear, and 
promised on their side that they would attempt nothing fur- 
ther. But yesterday, the House being come into the Com- 
mittee appointed, thatjparty most treacherously began the 
whole matter of the impeachments and brought on tins ques- 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 127 

tion, " That the House of Commons had not right done 
them in the matter of the impeachments in the last Parlia- 
ment." 

This was debated from noon till 8 at night, and that party 
in full assurance of carrying their point, and involving us anew 
in confusion, engaging both the Houses iu a new quarrel, and 
setting the whole nation in a ferment; but they lost their 
point in the fullest house that ever was known: they were 221 
and we for the negative 235. 

But after our friends had carried this question, they 
thought it fit to turn the enemies ' cannon upon them, and 
accordingly they passed the two other affirmative Yotes (which 
are printed in the Votes of the House as the Committee's) viz, 
"That it was the undoubted right of the people of England to 
petition for the calling, sitting, and dissolving of Parliaments;" 
and, "That it is the undoubted right of all the subjects of 
England, on all prosecutions,impeachments, as well as others, 
to be brought to a speedy trial." 

Mr. Harley (who in the Committee was as a private 
Member, and not as Speaker,) betrayed his passion, and 
shewed that private animosity and reAenge prevailed over 
all other obligations (I am sorry to say it,) and even over 
the assurances he gave to us his friends, to the King, and 
I believe also to many of you abroad, who have heard of 
Ms engagement to lay aside all resentment, and let the mat- 
ters of last year sleep. 

This behaviour of Mr. Harley extremely troubles me,for 



128 LETTEES OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

he loses all reputation and trust among us, and is as one 
desperately engaged in party. 'Tis he and he alone that wounds 
us; for all the strength of the Tories or Church party is no- 
thing,but by that force which he brings over to them from our 
side; so that joining with the western corner (Cornwall and 
Wales,) where unhappily there is such an over proportion 
of Members, he brings us to these extremities. There is a 
mighty pretty scheme of this disproportion of our representa- 
tions which I send enclosed as a curiosity in a letter by this 
post to Mynheer Paats, who lately wrote to me. Pray give my 
most humble service to him. Mr. Yan Twedde, and other 
friends, and believe me yourself to be to you and yours a 
faithful friend and servant. 



LETTER LXYIII. SHAFTESBURY to EURLEY. 

MR. FUEXEY, LONDON, MaECH 18, 170 J. 

I received yours in answer to my arguments against the 
project of a new Partition, and T am glad to find your senti- 
ments agree with mine. I think there is nothing plainer 
under heaven: if the world are unable to master Erauce 
and tear Spain out of its hands, Erauce must be master of 
the world, and whatever the King of Erauce may part from 
at present, to hinder the world 's uniting at first against him, 
when he has by this means, and by a t eacherous peace, 
made sure of Spain itself, he will soon fetch back the rest 



1701] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 129 

and with it the rest of Europe into his power. This all men 
must soon be convinced of, and is what gains in England, and 
I hope ere long will be the opinion of every man true to the 
Protestant interest and the liberty of mankind. 

This day we have had a trial of these sentiments in our 
House of Lords; we having been some time upon the consider- 
ation of the Partition Treaty, and framing an Address upon it 
to the King, in which we represent to him the wrong measures 
of that Treaty, but conclude against the perfidiousness of 
France; which broke even this Treaty so over-advantageous to 
him. Our great debate was on these words to be added to 
the Address, " That it appeared to us that the King of Prance 
had manifestly violated this solemn Treaty, and that on this 
account we addressed his Majesty that for the future he would 
never treat with this King of Prance but with such caution as 
might carry with it effectual security;" which being objected 
against as a declaring war with Prance, and not treating but 
on the terms of a new King of Spain, it was so accepted on 
our side, and a Lord of yours, and my particular acquaintance 
owned it thus, and explained it his sense for sending back the 
young gentleman to Yersailles, and bringing the ArchDuke 
into his room, and that which was his just right. 

The Lords of the other party, finding themselves not strong 
enough to oppose this question, moved for adjournment of the 
debate, in which they carried several Lords from us that were 
of our opinion. However, we carried it against them 39 to 31, 
which is a full House of Lords; and the question itself we after- 



130 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

wards carried with few negatives, and without a division. Im- 
mediately after, the memorials of our two Ministers (the Eng- 
lish andDutch) to Mr. D'avaux were communicated to the House, 
by the King's order, as they were at the same time to the House 
of Commons, but both Houses referred the consideration of them 
to a further day. 

In the mean time, I can add nothing more at present, but 
my kind sendee to your good family, and my respects to all my 
worthy friends, to whom you make any mention of me, or com- 
municate any thing of these advices I send you, especially Mr. 
Yan Twedde, Mynheer Paats, and our two worthy friends at the 
Hague, when you see them. I enclosed a long letter (a whole 
state of our affairs) to Mr. Hysternian in one to yourself last 
post. I hope it came safe. 

I am your sincere friend and servant. 

I mightily rejoice at the good character you give of 
Henry Wilkinson. I pray God he may continue to deserve 
it, and the kindness both you and Mrs. Eurley are so good as 
to shew him. 

I return my hearty thanks to Mrs. Eurley for her kind pre- 
sent: but it has happened unfortunately, that the rats in the ship, 
gnawing a hole through the barrels, ate up every thing within. 



LETTER LXIX. SHAETESBURY to EURLEY. 

MR. FURLEY, AUG. 10, 1702. 

When I heard from your son Ben of his arrival in town, I 



1702} SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 131 

stopped my hand and thought not to write to you till 1 had 
seen him here, which he gave me hopes of; but having heard a 
second time from him, and finding that I cannot expect him 
here yet awhile, I would not delay writing to you longer, nor be 
wanting in giving you and my friends an account of our affairs 
and new chosen Parliament, which perhaps may sit so soon that 
you may be surprized by their behaviour, if you first of 
all are not apprized of their character: in which, however, I 
must be cautious, for, as times are now turning with us, we 
must take more care of our expressions than we were used. How- 
ever, it is no treason to say, that that party wliom the Court 
has favored, have obtained their victory in almost all parts : by 
what means or practices, lawful or unlawful, moderate or vio- 
lent, I will not say. The Justices of peace, the Sheriffs, 
the Officers of all the Militia of Cities and counties, with 
all the rest of the civil and military offices, were in the hands 
of the high church party, and the changes reserved to the very 
instant of the elections, the more to strike a terror and break the 
measures of those who, depending on some moderation, had not 
armed themselves nor the people they influenced, against such 
an attack of all those that were friends of the late Government 
and lovers of the deliverance and deliverer. But how could all 
this be avoided? How should those who were truly friends to 
King William and his cause be able to support it and his me- 
nory at such a time as this, when it was but a year since, the 
ast of his whole life, that ever he put himself into their hands 
>r gave them either credit or authority; but on the contrary 



13.2 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D, 

through all his whole reign, excepting only his last glorious- 
year, having placed all his confidence on those who were true 
friends indeed to the Crown, but not to his Crown, did on all 
occasions sacrifice and deliver np those wretches called Whigs 
to the fury of their enemies; and even when he seemingly took 
them into his favor, as he did towards the end of the war, which 
never had been ended but in a more fatal manner, had not 
necessity brought them into play, even then he more ruined 
them than ever, having only imposed on them the load of taxing" 
without the allowance of one act to make them pop ular; and at 
last when they, by acting for the Court, had lost their credit, 
and their enemies had gained esteem by acting contrarily, 
they were then discarded and delivered up after that their ser- 
vices had procured a peace, which being so perfidiously broken, 
and the treachery of the other party appearing so openly ,it 
pleased Heaven to turn our King's heart, and to inspire him 
with the resolution of embracing his true friends, which he 
did, and found the effects of it, in being enabled to fix all his af- 
fairs abroad for the common safety :but not so as to establish his- 
friends' interest here at home, where those who were come al- 
most to trample on himself whilst alive might well be able to 
trample on his memory and friends after death. This we must 
peaceably submit to and wait the event. Eor most certainly 
the same party which was subdued in the last is two to one in 
the present Parliament. 

There are two things may work for us; the first is their vio- 
lence, which may alarm and awake the people, and " The people 



1702] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUKY, &c. 133 

once awake, England is safe," is a tried maxim. My friends 
abroad heard it from me some years since, though they could 
not then see that England was not determined by a Parliament, 
but the event shewed it; and when we had set the people right 
we knew all would be so. But the people have now an opinion 
that these men and this very Ministry will serve their turn, and 
carry on things abroad for their own honour, and pursue the 
war vigorously. They have been the party that have of late 
years acted the patriot, and they have now purged themselves 
by the solemnest of oaths, the abjuration, and by their profess- 
ing their zeal for a war and against Erance. Now that they 
are, say they, in good hands, even you abroad are willing to 
think well of our Ministry. The experiment must be tried: if 
they shew themselves soon by their violence in any kind, we 
shall soon be rid of them. The next hope is from their division 
amongst themselves: if they use their late friends (the Harleys 
and Eoleys) ill, then all that party joins again with those of the 
same principle, aud we shall have our own. Upon the whole I 
am not disheartened, but rejoice chiefly to hear so well of the 
cause of liberty amongst you. Earewell. 



LETTER LXX. LOCKE to EURLEY. 

DEAR FRIEND, OaTES, 12 OCT. 1702. 

(12) Did I not think you are so well satisfied of my of- 
teems friendship, that you will not doubt of it, whether I talk 
to you, or whether I hold my peace, I should not have been so 



134 LETTEES OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

long silent after the receipt of three very obliging letters. You 
see I have ingenuity enough to acknowledge my debt, though 
I have not wherewithal to make you returns in the like kind. 
All the action is on your side of the water, and daily fur- 
nishes matter: we then make no noise, and I am too far oat 
of the way (which I am not sorry for) to hear any thing 
that does not. And whether it be society or dull old age, 
or any thing else, I have not curiosity to be prying or to 
acquaint myself with the bias or bent of affairs. Only I 
shall always be glad to hear of public events that tend to 
the prosperity and preservation of my country, and the security 
of Europe. I promised myself much satisfaction in your com- 
pany here this summer, and it has been a great disappointment 
to miss it. Besides the joy it would have been to me to see 
you again, I flatter myself we could have passed some days 
together not unpleasantly, though news and politics had been 
excluded out of our conversation. I think myself upon the 
brink of another world, and being ready to leave those shuf- 
flings which have generally too broad a mixture of folly and 
corruption, should not despair with you to find matters more 
suited to the thoughts of rational creatures to entertain us. 
Do not think now that I am grown either a Stoic or a Mystic. 
I can laugh as heartily as ever, and be in painjfor the public 
as much as you. I am not grown into a sullenuess that puts 
off humanity; no, nor mirth neither; come and try; but I 
have laid by the simplicity of troubling my head about things 



1702] SIDNEY, SHAITESBUBY, &c. 135 

that I cannot give the least heed to one way or the other. 
I rather choose to employ my thoughts about some thing 
that may better myself and perhaps some few other such simple 
fellows as I am. You may easily conclude this written in a 
chimney-corner in some obscure hole out of the way of the 
lazy men of this world. And 1 think not the worse of it 
for being so : and I pray heartily it may continue so as long 
as I live. I live in fear of the bustlers,, and would not have 
them come near me. Such quiet fellows as you are, that come 
without drum and trumpet, with whom we can talk upon equal 
terms, and receive some benefit by their company, I should 
be glad to have in my neighbourhood, or to see sometimes, 
though they came from the other side of the water. 

Though I have nothing to say to you nor send to you but 
my hearty good wishes, which are far from news to you, yet I 
am you see got into a vein of talking, and know not how long 
I should run on in it, did not my arm stop my hand. I have 
of late so great a pain in my arm when I write, that I am often 
fain to give off. But 'tis not strange that my frail tempera- 
ment has decays in it, 'tis rather to be wondered that it hath last- 
ed so long. If my continuance might be of any service to you 
or any of my friends or to any good man, I shall be glad; for 
I am with great affection and sincerity, 

Your faithful friend and humble servant, 
J. Locke. 

Sir Francis, my lady and the rest of this family give their 
service to you and yours: pray give mine particularly to your dear 



im LETTERS OE LOCKE, [AD. 

son and self, to Dr. Comp, and to Mons. Baile wlien lie comes 
in your way. However lvalue his opinion in the first rank of those 
who have got my book, yet he will not do me the favor to let 
me know what he thinks of it one way or other. 



LETTER LXXI. LOCKE to EURLEY. 

Sib, Oates, 12 Oct. 1702. 

I am glad to hear that you are arrived safe to London 
and now I know where you are, I send this letter to you with 
the return of my thanks for yours that you writ me from 
thence just as you were leaving the town. I thought myself 
more obliged to you for your visit than you could be to me 
for any thing I could do for you here. However I receive the 
acknowledgments you make me as I know you intend them, 
and can assure you, that if esteem, good will, and readiness 
to serve you on any occasion within my power, both for your 
own and your father's sake, be acceptable to you, as I doubt 
not, I shall never fail to deserve your thanks. Mr. Limborck 
writes me word that you intend us a visit here again before 
you go to Holland. I am obliged by the intention, and 
shall always be glad to see you. But if your leisure, the 
weather, and all other circumstances do not concur to make it 
pleasant and easy to you, do not put yourself to the fatigue of 
a toilsome journey barely out of ceremony. If you come, you 
are sure to be very welcome; if any thing fall out to hinder it, 



1702] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY &c. ,137 

you will not be blamed or quarrelled with for it. 

I spoke to you when you were here for a cask of the dou- 
ble mum, whereof you say your father has very good. 'Tis not 
that I have any great need of it that I would have it: only be- 
cause you commended it to be perfectly good of the kind, I 
would be glad to have it, if you can send it over conveniently, 
without much trouble to yourself, and see that no tricks be 
played it by the way. Mr. Limborch and I, talking of that, 
were of a mind that the best way was to put another cask over 
it.Eor if it were a double cask, neither the seamen between this 
and Holland, nor the seamen between this and London, could 
draw out the mam and fill it up again with worse liquor. But 
I must leave this to you: pra}^ when you send it, consign it to 
Mr. Limborch, and I shall give him orders to pay you for it. 

I have here enclosed sent you a letter for your father, to 
whom pray remember me very kindly, and to your mother and 
your brother Arent and your brother-in-law. Give my service 
also, I beg you, to Mr Bayle and to Dr. Colans. If I see you 
not again before you go, I wish you a safe and quick passage to 
your friends at Rotterdam, and all happiness and prosperity 
with them. I am, Your very affectionate humble servant, 

J. Locke. 

This family remember themselves to you with kindness, 
Pray let your brother Arent know that I thank him for his 

civil letter. To Mr. EURLEY JUNIOR. 



* This letter appears to have been written on the same 



138 LETTERS OP LOCKE, [A.D. 

LETTER, LXXII. SHAFTESBURY to FURLEY. 

MR. FIELEY, St. GlLES, JN"OY. 4, 1702. 

I hope that before this readies you, your son Benjamin will 
be safely arrived : who brings some letters from me to you and 
other friends. 

My letter to yonrself was but short; since your son, who 
came so lately from me, and was so kind as to stay some time 
with me longer than he first designed, was able to tell you all my 
thoughts of our public affairs, from which I am now much 
withdrawn, and must be more so, not only because of this season, 
in which it is not so proper for such as I am to act; but in truth 
because my efforts in time of extremity, for this last year or two, 
have been so much beyond my strength in every respect, that not 
only for my mind's sake, (which is not a little to one that loves 
retirement as I do), but for my health's sake, and on the ac- 
count of my private circumstances, I am obliged to give my- 
self a recess, which will have this agreeable in it, besides the 
retirement which I love, that I shall promise myself the 
happiness of seeing you in Holland; since 3-ouhave been so long 
a coming to us, but are still so far from it, by what 
I can guess. 

I have received yours of the 7th, your stile, enclosed in your 

day as the last: for both of them are dated oct. 12, 1702-3. 
there is perhaps an error in one of these dates. 



1702] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 130 

son's, who writ me lie was then about his journey to Harwich 
for the next packet. I was mightily pleased to read in yours 
of the generous offer of a certain great Lord* to you for the 
preferring of some young man of your recommendation to his 
service in his great employment, nor was I less pleased to see 
how the young lads received it when you read it to them, and 
methought I saw, as if I were present, their honest ambition 
and friendly emulation : but it is Harry's duty to wave his 
part, audi really think, by what I can judge by this first view, 
that in prudence, and according to best advice for their com- 
mon interest, and the interest of each in particular, it is better 
that this favor should be for Mr. Arent ; since being your own 
son, a kind of foster-child too to Mr. Locke, my lord's great 
friend, he can enjoy the fruits of your recommendation and 
carry the force of your own and friend's interest with my lord 
much better than a stranger can do, or one whom I am, as 
perhaps may seem, but remotely concerned for. Besides that, as 
for any interest that I have myself with my lord, it is what I 
cannot much count upon, since this last year or two that he 
threw himself so eagerly into the Tory interest, and prosecuted 
both the impeachments and all those other fatal, obstructive, 
and unjust measures, with so much violence. He has now 
smarted for it, having been barbarously treated by that party lie 
went over to, who sacrificed him last year in the House of Com- 
mons, where his son, though my good friend and pupil, never 

* Charles Earl of Peterborough. 



140 LETTERS OP LOCKE, [A.D. 

gave us a vote till about that time. My Lord is now come back 
to his original friends and principles,and those sores are all healed 
up, but how it may stand between myself and him I know not, 
as to his part, for great men are not so forgiving as we that 
are of a lower genius and meeker spirits; and indeed, as much 
as I honor him now and congratulate his advancement, * which 
I do more heartily perhaps than any friend he has in the world, 
yet at that time I opposed him earnestly, and told him the 
treatment he would infallibly meet with at last from lus new 
friends whom he then joined with. 

I was going to have writ more, but I just received notice 
that my Lord Portland,f being going through our Country, 
is just coming hither to stay with me this night, so I shall 
not have time to add further. 

It being King William's birth-day and landing, and we hav- 
ing just received the great and glorious news of burning the 
Erench fleet and galleons, we shall pass the evening cheer- 
fully, and I can with the more satisfaction honour and make 
much of my guest for ever having had commerce with him 
till the days of his adversity; in which, for the sake of the 
common cause and love of Holland, I served and respected 

* To be Governor of Jamaica. t William first 

Earl of Portland and K. C. father of the first Duke, By " the 
days of his adversity " Lord Shaftesbury probably alludes to 
his impeachment in 1701, for his share in the Partition 
Treaty. 



1702] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 141 

him to the utmost. I remain, yours faithfully. Dues to 
all yours, and to my worthy friends of your town &c. 

LETTER LXXIII. LOCKE to CLARKE. 

DEAR SIR, OaTES, 30 Nov. 02. 

There will be, I doubt not, holidays of some kind or other 
for you at Christmas ; and then what should hinder you to take 
a little air. A few days spent here then, I think, would do you 
no harm, and I am sure would oblige more than one here. Do 
not blame me, if T desire to be happy once more in your com^ 
pany. 1 have been little better than out of the world these 
last twelve months by a deafness that in great measure shuts 
me out of conversation. I thank God my hearing is now re- 
stored again, and it is in your power to make me yet more 
sensible of that blessing. It would be folly in me to count upon 
another Christmas : come then and let me enjoy you this. My 
Lady, who gives you her service, joins with me in this request, 
and says, that in this uncertain world she knows nothing so de- 
sirable as the conversation of friends. And therefore she nor I 
are not to be blamed if we take care to secure yours early, 
that nothing may fall between to rob us of our hopes. 

Dear Sir, 

Your most affectionate humble servant, 
J. Locke. 



142 LETTEES OE LOCKE, [A.D.. 



LETTER LXXIY. SHAETESB. to IL "WILKINSON. 

hakry., Chelsea, Jax. 12, 1702-3. 

I can easily excuse yonr failing to write to me when yon 
are so well employed in yonr master's service. I thank God 
that I hear so good a report of thee, and I hope I shall never 
have the sorrow of hearing any thing contrary. 

I was pleased when I heard of thy honest ambition, or em- 
ulation rather, in the case of going to the West Indies with 
Lord Peterborough, but then thon must remember what is be- 
coming thee in modesty, considering thy circumstances and 
obligations to thy master, and that not in this case only, where 
a son of thy master's is concerned, but in all cases thou be 
ready and williDg to give place in all things, and to all, and 
this is that Christian virtue which not only becomes thy youth 
and circumstances, but will give thee respect and love, and raise 
thee in the world, for thus it is, that even in a worldly sense, 
that maxim of Christianity is good,so that he who thus " hum- 
bles himself shall be raised;" as on the contrary, "he that 
raises himself shall be abased. " And, now, besides what I 
have said to thee here, if thou hast prudence, thou wilt find by 
what I Avrit in Mr. Eurley's, which he read to thee concerning 
matters as they stood between me and Lord Peterborough, it 
had been no happy thing for thee to have gone, as on my 
account, being my recommendation and care: God grant it be, 
as I hope and trust it will, fully happy with Mr. Arent, who 



1703] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUEY, &c. Uti 

goes. 

Thy present was kindly received by my sister Hooper, who 
with all my family remember to thee, and I assure thee myself 
of being thy affectionate friend, 

Shaftesbury. 

I have had some of our country Christmas provision that 
has lain in the ships to go to Mr. Eurley's these three weeks, 
but there is yet no convoy nor ship that stirs, so I shall be forced 
to send for the pie away, but the brawn I hope will hold good. 

Continue to write when thou canst. I hope it will be but 
few months ere I see you in Holland, where I think of coming 
to reside for some months in the greatest privacy, and rest me 
from the fatigues I have endured in the publick affairs and 
business, which have much wasted me and injured my health. 
God be with thee. 

My kind remembrances to all your family, and to Mr. 
Benjohan, with thanks for his letter. 

TO ME. WILKINSON. 



LETTEE LXXY. SHAFTESBUEY to H. WILKINSON. 

hahey, Jan. 1702-3, 

I received yours of the 10th, but what you writ some 
time since of your affairs pleased me much better. I am glad 
to see you forward and concerned for your interest and for- 



L44 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

tune, but there is that which is better than all the fortune or 
interest in the world, I mean your behaviour and conduct, 
which I am much more concerned for, as much as 1 have be- 
stowed on you, and as great pains as I have taken to enable 
you to rise in the world and be something. 

But this is in a second place, and to be considered at a far 
distance, after the much more valuable possession I have nam- 
ed. I had rather at any time receive from you one sound proof 
of your honesty, fidelity, good nature, modesty, and humility, 
than a thousand of your ability, good fortune, and success, which 
yet, I trust in God, will not be wanting to you. But there is a 
double danger which young men run in this world, for, after 
they have overcome base and vicious inclinations, and are 
found sober and temperate, there are other passions which are 
apt to gain upon them, and without great care their very in- 
dustry and sobriety may become a means to injure them and 
blow them up ; for a sober and industrious young man will find 
so many advantages in the world, and so fair a way open before 
him, that he is easily led to ambition, and to think too forward- 
.ly of himself. If there were any true preachers of Christianity 
in the world, it would be found a chief point to put men, es- 
pecially young men, in mind of this, that they might know that 
after all other advantages and good qualities, humility and poor- 
ness of spirit, to use our Saviour's words,were the noblest qua- 
lifications. 'Tis this that makes men meek, affable, and com- 
pliant, mindful of their benefactors, and sensible of gratitude 
and duty to those whom they are owing to. 



1702] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBUBY, &c. 145 

But as to your own particular affairs at present, "'tis true 
you have little business, as you say, now that tins late misfor- 
tune befallen your master has taken off so much of his prac- 
tice. 

But it is your peculiar good fortune, for which you have 
reason to bless God, that you are with a master whose good life 
and integrity, wisdom and virtue, love to mankind and his coun- 
try, with many othsr eminent qualities not to be found in mer- 
chants of our days, make him a better teacher and instructor to 
you than in any other way. If in other affairs you are not a- 
ble to serve him as formerly, this is a time to shew your re- 
spect and deference for him in another manner, to seek instruc- 
tion from him, attend upon him, and officiously serve him in 
every minute thing. 

Advise and consult with him as to all relating to your for- 
tune. If it be agreeable to him, or any kind of satisfaction or 
service to him, think not only of staying out your full time, bat 
staying in Holland either with him or in any other circumstance, 
as long as you are able to contribute the least to his or to his 
family's service. 

As for my own part, I am just leaving the town, after giving 
my proxy in Parliament, and shall go to St. Giles's for the 
winter, and in the spring and summer shall be here again, and 
not at St, Giles's, as you imagine. 

My eyes smart for this, and I can write no more, but my 
prayers for you and the good family. 



146 LETTEES OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

LETTEE LXXT7L SHAETESBUEY to EUELEY. 
mr. eurley, Chelsea, Jan. 30th, 1702-3. 

I have two of yours unanswered, which should not have 
been had I not found you understood our matters so right as 
that I need not explain them to you. 

Your judgment about E. Harley is perfectly right. He is 
ours at the bottom. I cannot call him truly a man of virtue : 
for then he had not been lost to us by any disobligation or ill- 
usage, of which he has had sufficient. He is truly what is 
called in the world a great man, and it is by him alone that 
that party has raised itself to such a greatness as almost to 
destroy us. "Tis he has taught 'em their popular game, and 
made them able in a way they never understood, and were so 
averse to, as never to have complied with, had they not found it 
at last the only way to distress the Government. But I be- 
lieve there is hopes of gaining him. If he who has done so 
much, to divide and break and ruin his own party and friends 
will but do half so much to piece 'em up and unite them, 
the thing will be easy, and the cause our own. This gentle- 
man and others will then soon come over. God grant that 
he I mean may be so wise: there is hopes too of this: for 
great steps are taken, and we are bid to hope. The Duke 
of Somerset is a Tory and of a Tory family, and become a zeal- 



1703] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUM, &c. 147 

ous and hearty man with us:* and, indeed, all the Ministry 
hitherto taken in are of the very best. 

What you enquire of concerning my brother's f choice 
you will already be resolved in if yon ever read the Votes, 
where you will find that he made his choice to serve for 
"Wiltshire, being chosen both there and at Weymouth in 
Dorsetshire, which chuses four members. 

Our good friend Lord Peterborow was by the treachery 
and malice of the Tory party censured yesterday in the House of 
Commons, for which he is the less pitied, because he last 
year joined so much with that party, and in the impeachment 
and prosecution of his brother Whigs, for which his new friends 
the Tories have well repaid him. But I thank them for the ex- 
ample : not only for setting my Lord Peterborow right (for 
this fixes him ours), but for shewing all those of our party who 
tamper with them, what they have to expect. 

The " Paradoxes" are printed, and I have sent one to you 
with one to Mr. Hysterman (to whom I have writ this post), 
and one to Mr. Van Twedde. 

I am often at a loss to send you any packet of that 
kind with dispatch : will it not be enough that I send it to 
Mr. Wright's in the city? for it happens that, when I hear 
not of a ship in some time (this lying not in my way), the 



* Charles, the sixth and " proud " Duke of Somersat, the 
new Queen had made her Master of the Horse, and he retail! ed 
that post throughout her reign, until 1715. 

t The Hon. Maurice Ashley. 



148 LETTEES OF LOCKE, [A.D. 

things that I would send you growing out of date, I wholly 
omit them: and thus perhaps you will have one of those 
pamphlets long before mine come to you. I have sent you 
some of the Wiltshire advices, as delivered by the Gentlemen 
and Freeholders of the county to my brother. 

My best services to all my friends, particularly your own 
family, and believe me to be Sincerely yours. 

Mr. Mickelthwayt will write to you himself about his 
brother. 

I received lately a present from Mr. Bayle of his Diction- 
ary, for which pray return him my humble thanks. I shall do 
it myself in a post or two. 

LETTEE LXXVII. SHAETESBUEY to EUELEY. 

MR. FURLEY, APRIL 30, 1703. 

My eyes have been lately so bad that I have scarce writ a 
letter this month, and not being willing to make use of any 
other hand to you but my own, I must be short though I have 
much to say. 

I rejoice to hear Mr. Benjohan recovers by the use of the 
bark. If he purges in any time afterwards (as it is convenient 
to take physic), he must take some more of the bark a few doses; 
else purging brings back the ague, which is the thing that 
makes people say the bark cures but for a time, for by taking 
physic without this caution the ague often returns. 

I received yours of advice of Bill of £20 sterling drawn on 



17031 SIDNEY, SHAPTESBUBY, &c. 149 

my servant, which he has paid Mr. Lixnborch. I have received 
also yours of this last post but one, that brought us the welcome 
news of the French being repulsed; but we are alarmed this last 
post with news of a new attack on Count Prosper of Pustenberg, 
who I hope will give them the same reception. The good news 
has operated strangely in our Court, and broke the treacherous 
measures that are feared in some of the Ministry, who were 
believed fully to depend on the success of the attempted junct- 
tion with Bavaria, and so terrifying the whole empire bring 
on a sudden peace. The Emperor to have the dominions 
in Italy annexed to him,the Elector of Bavaria the Spanish Ne- 
therlands with a Kingly title; and so Spain, West Indies, &c. 
to be left with the Duke of Anjou, and consequently the whole 
world in a little time more in the hands of Erance. This far 
more fatal second Partition Treaty was supposed to be suppor- 
ted at the Court of Yienna by Count Mansfield (an imperial 
Tory), as well as by those of the same kind in our home Minis- 
try. But the Queen herself without advice of Council (and 
against the inclination as is thought of some there) sent to the 
Tower to have the guns fired, and to the City to have the bells 
rang on this glorious news ; and expressed real joy when more 
than half her Court were said to have sad looks. It was said 
publicly at a coffee-house by an officer at Court, that a great 
man had obstructed the Treaty with Portugal, and had said 
in Couucil that it was unlawful to send aid to the Sennes, who 
were rebels. 

This is now the talk of the town, and, the great man liav- 



150 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

ing complained of this discourse, the other officer is like to lose 
his place. ""Tis hoped by all that love the common cause, that 
the King of Portugal comes in upon the right and true foun- 
dation, offering to receive the Archduke as King of Spain, and 
conduct him to Madrid, if we will bring him over. Count 
Wratislaw§ they say is gone about this to Yienna, and Mr. 
Methuen returns to Portugal. God grant this be so. I have 
left no room to speak of myself, and in time I hope to see 
you and friends. I have a match in hand for a sister which 
will detain me some time; our law affairs being as you know 
the most dilatory in the world. Dues to all friends, so fare 
well. 

§ A curious incident has occurred in the family of the 
Wratislaws, winch I here mention, that it may not be altoge- 
ther lost. A gentleman, bearing this name, is now Eellow of 
Christ's College, Cambridge. He knew nothing more of his 
family than that his father had come formerly from Hungary 
and settled in England. Within the last two years the son tra- 
velling in Hungary, fell in with some of the Wratislaws, 
and the identity of name led to mutual explanations, by which 
it was discovered that a younger member of the Wratislaw 
family had fled from his parents about the time that the 
father of the Eellow of Christ's College first come to England. 
Little doubt remained that the father and the fugitive were the 
same. 



1702] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 151 



LETTEE LXXYIII. SHAETESBURY to EUELEY. 

MR. EURLEY, CHELSEA, JUNE 11, 1703. 

I forbore several posts since yours in answer to my last, 
waiting till I might tell you. something positive concerning my 
coming over to you; which 1 now can: for the affairs which 
hindered me this spring being now for the most part over, I 
shall only stay this month out, and in the next, I trust Provid- 
ence, I shall be with you. 

Therefore 1 propose to myself to say little to you by letter 
in this interval, except with relation to my abode with you, 
which I must entreat the trouble of you to help to make 
convenient and private for me; for though I wish for your sake 
chiefly to be in the town of Eotterdam with you, yet as it is 
the most public place and common landing and passage of the 
English, so it will be the hardest for me to be private without 
great care. 

In the next place I must have regard to my health, which 
I have mightily impaired by my fatigues in the public affairs 
these last three years, and am now as bad again as when I re- 
tired for respite, and recovered myself by my last retreat in 
Holland; the air of Eotterdam is happily as good or better 
than any, but that I speak for is to get into such a lodging 
as I might be w^irm in the winter time, I being not able to 
make use of stoves, for which reason my chamber should be the 



152 LETTEBS OP LOCKE, [A.D. 

closer to be well warmed in the winter by the fire only. 

I liked both my lodging and every thing very well where I 
last was, bnt perhaps that is gone ; if not, then the same room 
will do perfectly well, only, the light not being so good for 
reading in the room I lay in, T must hire me both that and 
another at the other end of the passage, which I made use of 
sometimes. Now, if this lodging be gone, I would intreat you 
to seek out a lodging and board for me amongst some good 
quiet people, either Erench or Dutch, and I should be glad to 
be nearer to your quarter : provided it may not be so near 
or in so public a place as easily to be found by those who see 
me at any time come to your house, where I may sometimes 
meet a friend, but except yourself and family will entrust no 
person to come to my own lodging; by which rule I kept my- 
self so easy and private the last time. 

The last thing, and the chief that I shall beg of you to 
look after for me, is a servant. He whom I had with me last 
is married and keeps a shop. I have no other that speaks any 
language but English, so I must take a new one ; I shall bring 
a youth with me who will serve me very well in my chamber, 
but for all necessaries, and for help and attendance abroad, buy- 
ing things for me and the like, I should have one that knows 
something of the language of the country, and Erench very 
well. Whether this be a Dutch or a Erench servant is indifferent 
to me ; and all the qualifications I want are sobriety and faithful- 
ness ; for shaving my English servant will serVe me. I shall 
be willing to give ever so good wages, but for a good servant, 



1703] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &e. 153 

tliat were faithful, and any poor honest fellow that had 
no ability in any common way of service would serve my turn. 
So that I should hope you might easily find some such amongst 
the French, or any other ; and, if you could, I should be wil- 
ling you would secure him, by giving him any allowance you 
think fit from this time till I come over. Thus you see I 
trouble you freely with my necessities, and beg to hear from 
you the soonest. I hope Mr. Benjohan recovers. Dues to all 
yours and my friends. I am faithfully yours. 



LETTER LXXIX. SHAFTESBURY to FURLEY. 

kit! fleley, Chelsea, June 25, 1703. 

This is enly to give account that I received yours, and 
to thank you for the pains you have been at to get me a 
lodging, servant, and conveniences. I hope you have fixed 
it for me ere this, the lodging especially, for I should be glad 
to come thither upon my landing, since either at a public house 
or in yours, were I to stay but a night or two, I might be 
more liable to be found out by those who might make me un- 
easy : for I must be more troublesome in this concern of my 
privacy than I was last time, by so much the more as I have 
made myself more known in the world, and have acted a more 
public part, which will place a great many eyes upon me that 
will seek for mystery where there is none, and think my retire- 
ment rather a pretext than a reality, as a certain party of men 



154 LETTEBS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

have already represented it to our superiors in a talk which it 
seems the suspicion of it has occasioned. 

I shall be much obliged to Mons. Boyd if he can find me 
such a servant as you describe, of known fidelity, and I should 
be very glad to eat with such a person as you mentioned in the 
last of your three proposals : I leave you to determine for me ; 
I desire of all things a retired private and quiet family, and such 
a one may very well receive me, though my outward charac- 
ter, and the common notion people have of one of my rank, gives 
but an ill impression. 

I shall see few persons besides yourself and family ; and 
no other whatsoever at my lodging. I shall trouble a house 
with no more than one servant, for when I have put my ser- 
vant, whom you are to take for me, into the way of serving, I 
shall, in a fortnight or little more, send back my English ser- 
vant whom I bring over with me. I am now only thinking 
of a safe and good convoy, fearing nothing so much as falling 
alive into French hands ; therefore should lay hold of any ves- 
sel of war, English or Dutch, where I was sure at least of ma- 
king good resistance, and this, I think, is harder to find on our 
side than yours, for our Admiralty affairs grow every day so 
much worse, as yours I hope grow better since the vacancy of a 
Stadtholder,** which God of his mercy long continue, as well 
as that happy success so remarkably appearing ever since that 
time, and of which your last letter of advice of forcing the 

*By the death of King William the Third. 



17 03] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUBY, &c. 155 

French lines is a sufficient proof. Excise the haste of this 
and let me hear from you, I entreat you, concerning my lodging, 
board, and servant, if you have agreed it. So with my respects 
to friends, and chiefly to yourself and family, I remain as ever 
yours. 

All my friends, especially Mr. Micklethwait, remember to 
you. 



LETTEE LXXX. LOCKE to SXE H. SLOANE. 

sir, Gates, 24 Eeb. Of. 

I should not have been so long indebted to you for a letter 

without returning you an answer, were I not through laziness 
or indisposition, call it which you please, grown in that respect 
perfectly a bankrupt. And yet, had you staid but some few days 
longer, I had prevented you, and made an offer at redeeming 
my credit with you. The particular esteem I have for you and 
the obligations I have to you, made me resolve some time since 
to send you the continuation of my Eegister of the Air; wherein 
there was one obstacle to be got over. Mr. Churchill printed 
the former part of it in Mr. Boyle's General History of the 
Air, which he told me some time since he intended to publish 
anew with additions, and thereupon I promised him the re- 
mainder of my Eegister to be added to what he has already 
printed. But seeing his other additions not ready, and conclu- 
ding mine, if there be any use of it, will be lost if not published 



156 LETTERS OF LOCKE, [A.D. 

in my life-time, I have prevailed with him to consent to give the 
remainder of my Eegister to you to be published in the Philo- 
sophical Transactions, upon condition the bookseller, who prints 
the Transactions, will acknowledge the right of the Eegister to 
be in him, so that he may print it when he will. The matter 
standing thus, and believing this trifle of mine would not be 
wholly unacceptable to you, I had got one year transcribed be- 
fore I received yours of the 17th instant, with an intention to 
send it you very speedily. Thus much to alleviate my fault, 
and to convince you that, though I did not write to you, yet I 
did not wholly forget you. 

To come now to the business of your letter, I can only say 
to you in short that, wherever the mistake is, Eicherius de Be- 
level, about the Montpelier Garden, is a book that I never had, 
nor to my knowledge never saw in my life. If I had it, you 
might command it, as any other book in my study, not only 
for a week but as long a time as you had occasion to use it, 
I return you my thanks for the Transactions, which from time 
to time I receive from you. I wish there was any thing 
wherein I could serve you here. I am, Sir, 

Your most humble and obedient servant, 

J. Locke. 
Eor Dr. Sloane,* at his house near Southampton House 
in Bloomsbury Square, London. 

* By a letter, dated 15 Mar. 17 Of, it appears that Mr. 
Locke sent Sir Hans Sloane his Eegister for the year 1692, 



1704 SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 157 



LETTER LXXXI. SHAETESB. to A. EURLEY. 

MR. ARENT, St. GILESES, 18 EEB. 1704-5. 

Y r ou have made more than amends for your silence of 
late, by the length of your kind and ingenious letter, and I 
mnst now remain your debtor ; being as yet unable to write 
above a line or two. I have had another relapse of my fever 
by venturing abroad, but it has been nothing near its former 
violence, and by its going off thus gradually and allowing me 
time to get strength, I have reason to hope a perfect recove- 
ry, my eyes only remaining troublesome. I entreat you on 
this account to excuse me to your good father to whom I am 
indebted for two late ones. There is no need of your troubling 
yourself about sending that imperfect book; pray keep it your- 
self, and if I can one time or other get you a perfect one, you 
may destroy that. Your correspondence with that ingenious 
gentleman, who seems truly very fair and candid, must be very 
improving to you, and I should think you would do extreine- 

which was printed in the Philosophical Transactions, and the 
manuscript is preserved in the same volume as the letters which 
have been here introduced. This was perhaps the first of nu- 
merous Registers of the weather which followed it, and became 
common in the course of the 18th century. There is now a 
Register of the weather for every day kept in the Eorster 
family of Walthamstow, from 1767 to 1829 inclusive. 



L53 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

ly well to continue it. Whatever you communicate to me at 
any time, will still be very agreeable, as it has been very 
much hitherto. 

Tour argument for the antients is a noble one. 'Tis 
liberty, indeed, that can only polish and refine the spirit 
and soul as well as wit of man ; 'tis liberty that exalts him 
to manhood, and makes him differ more from the slave, than 
the slave differs from the beast ; and when he has felt and is 
conscious of this advantage, he will know this difference, not 
before. And therefore to persons of a certain nation (I mean 
Erance, which is of all others the most corrupt in this sense) 
you will hardly find this argument understood ; for, whatever 
flashes may now and then appear, I never yet knew one single 
Erenchman a free man. Nor do I think it in nature possible, 
if they have early sucked that air, or been bred, though in for- 
eign nations, amongst people and books of their own kind. 
How few even of Englishmen, or, which is more strange, of 
Hollanders themselves, that truly feel this principle ! But 
try our honest young Polander,"* and you will find him staunch 
I believe. He is just got into the antients, having first tried 
the moderns and been prepossessed, nevertheless I believe, 
without partiality to you or me, he will decide in our favor. 

* Mr. Crell, mentioned in a subsequent letter as studying 
at Cambridge, and the writer of the account of Lord Shaftes- 
bury's death, which will close this correspondence. 



1705 ] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUEY, &c. 159 

But I have over-writ myself, and can add only that I am 
yours, Shaftesbury. to mr.Ab.ent t Eurley. 



LETTEE LXXXII. SHAETESBUEY to EUEEEY. 

St. Giles's, 24 Eeb. 1704-5. 

I have still deferred returning you an answer, in hopes of 
my eyes being stronger, but they still continue weak, and I 
dare not write above a line or two, and that without any great 
application or intension of sight. 

I have had a late relapse; but nothing in comparison to 
those I had before, which makes me ready to presume on a 
recovery at last, and that I shall escape a consumption, into 
which my fever and impaired lungs had just carried me. 

Whenever there is the same occasion and parallel circum- 
stances with that you mention to me of Mr. Stockdale, there 
shall not be wanting the same example, if 1 am then alive; for 
1 know no better use of life than to spend it for one's country 
and for mankind; and better all at once (if the case may be) 
than piece-meal, for so mine has gone; bui things must be 
proportioned; and, as profuse as you would seem to be of ho- 
nest lives in this cause, I cannot but fancy such a scarcity of 
them, that whilst 1 count my own of the number, 1 must think 
of managing it for the Public the best I can. 

t Arent was Mr. Eurley's second son. He went with Lord 
Peterborough to the West Indies in .1702-3 ; and in 1705, as" 
his Secretary, to Spain, and died in that expedition. 



160 ' LETTERS OP LOCKE, [A.D. 

This I can assure you, that, if I thought it of no use to the 
public, I should not be at the pains I am at of preserving it; 
for I was never very fond of life at any time, much less of pre- 
serving a weak and sickly one as mine perhaps for the future 
may prove. God be thanked you yourself hold up so well, 
and that all your family are so. If I had no public reason to 
wish your prosperity, that of private friendship would be suffici- 
ent to make it of chief concern to me, being, as I am, 

Your most sincere and hearty friend, 
Shaftesbury. 

I entreat you to return my humble sendees to those friends 
you mention, who have been so kind as to remember me. 

The Parliament being near up, I expect Mr. Mickleth- 
wayt and other friends down in the country with me. We have 
lost the noblest, greatest youth of England, my Lord Hunting- 
don,* just dead of the small pox, a grief to all our friends and 
all that loved our cause. Enclosed is a letter which I beg you 
to forward to Sir Rowland Gwinn at Hanover, by sending it 
enclosed to the Baron the Hanover envoy at the Hague. 

LETTER LXXXIII. SHAFTESBURY to EURLEY. 

mr. furley. St. Giles's, March 7th, 1704-5. 

I received yours with the enclosed from Monsr. Le Clerc, 

* George, eighth Earl of Huntingdon, who had succeeded 
his father Theophilus (a great Jacobite), May 30, 1701, died 
Eeb. 22, 1704-5. 



1705] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 161 

to whom I had just before writ as full an account as I was able 
of Mr. Locke from the time of his coming into our family. If 
you find not the Treatise of Education in the number^of books 
which Mr. Coste, it seems, makes mention of, which were of 
Mr. Locke's writing; it is ( I suppose) because he had put his 
name to this, and Mr. Coste speaks only of such books as Mr. 
Locke had owned to be his in his will, but which had not his 
name to them, nor were publicly owned by him. 

I am much concerned for the continued ill treatment and 
injustice you have met with in your lawsuit for Mrs. Farley; 
and I shonld be more so if I thought this last blow irrecovera- 
ble. Law is in all countries a heavy lot. I am sorry it has 
been yours so long : aud if I can hope no further for you, 
yet at least I hope you will be out of pain at last, and that 
one way or other it will be decided, for dilatory justice is many 
times worse than dispatching injustice. 

I wonder you should have been so long without hearing 
from Mr. Micklethwaite. He often makes mention of his let- 
ters to you and family: and I wished him to write the more be- 
cause of my incapacity and distance, that he might give you ac- 
count of affairs from the center of business. 

He intends shortly to take a turn down to me here at St. 
Giles's, where I have hitherto been very solitary : the Parlia- 
ment and public affairs keeping my friends in town, and my 
indifferent state of health having hindered me from being very 
pressing with my friends to visit me, whilst I was so little fit 
for any company. 



162 LETTERS OP LOCKE, [A.D. 

But I thank God I recover very much; though by very 
slow degrees; and once again I am like to be saved from a con- 
sumption : being now, as they say, " got up March hill/' and 
the fine season contributing much toward my strength. 

But my strength of eyes is not such as to venture much on 
long writing: so with my kind services to all your family, and 
return of services, with many thanks, to such friends as are so 
kind as to remember me. I remain, as always, 

Your faithful friend, Shaftesbury. 



LETTEE LXXXIY. SHAETESBUEY to A. EUELEY. 

MB,. ARENT, St. GlLEs's, May 9, 1705. 

I received yours and your father's enclosed. I heartily 
rejoice at his recovery, as I do at your success and present 
station in the service of your country. I doubt not but you 
will worthily acquit yourself. You will, however, have need 
of all your natural goodness and acquired advantages 
of education, to keep yourself sober and virtuous in so 
dissolute an age, so debauched a nation, and in particular 
so debauched and corrupted a part of it as that wherein you 
are about to make your entrance into the world. Time was 
when the fleet of England was both manned and officered by 
the soberest and most religious sort of our countrymen; but 
of late days our fleets, especially when in harbour, have presen- 
ted us with the shamefullest scenes of luxury and riot. 



1705] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBUBY, &c. 163 

God keep you from the contagion, and preserve you your vir- 
tue in spite of example, for you will have none on the side of 
virtue, but all contrary, and you must live upon the stock you 
have had before. None had ever better examples in relations, 
parents, and friends than you have had; none of your degree 
had ever greater or better helps from learning, converse, and all 
other parts of a happy education, for which you owe so much 

to your good father. 

These advantages are incumbent on you, and would make 
your change more shameful, were you capable of changing from 
a sober and virtuous course, to one more like that part of 
mankind you are to come amongst. But such ingratitude, I 
dare pronounce, is far from you; and you will too well remem- 
ber what is owing to yourself; this alone being sufficient to 
make you keep your character and good life. 

And let me so far put you in mind of the antients and their 
morality, as to warn you once for all of their great foundation 
and chief maxim: that all that is noble and generous, the love 
of one's country, of mankind, all noble and virtuous actions, 
in short virtue and honesty itself, has rise, progress, health, 
strength, and safety, in the moderation, and restraint of our 
appetites; that is to sa} 7 , in temperance and sobriety. Tf you 
have this fortitude I doubt of no other in you, nor of any thing 
else to make you a considerable man; but it is fortitude indeed, 
and the highest kind, to resist the torrent of ill example. 

In spite of my ill eyes I have scribbled thus much to 
you. All services to your father and friends on the other side, 



1M LETTERS OP LOCKE, [AD. 

which with all manner of good wishes for your prosperity con- 
cludes this from your hearty friend and humble servant, 

Shaftesbury. 

I would desire you to take the first opportunity to send 
that fragment of a book to Mr. Coste hither, taking no notice 
of me, but letting it fall to him. in a negligent manner. He 
will shew it me no doubt, and I will keep it for you and return 
it, if 1 procure you not a better, as I hope. If you send what 
I mention to you hither to Mr. Coste, you will first give him 
notice of it in a letter, as by the by, and as in consequence of 
that curiosity you expressed to him some time since; and if 
you know no other way to send it, you may have it left at Chel- 
sea, to be sent with any of my things, which are sent every now 
and then, or at Sir John Cropley's, to be sent hither with any 
of his things, he being now with me, together with Mr. Mick- 
lethwait, for part of the summer, and it would be a great plea- 
sure to us to see you here, would affairs permit; meanwhile you 
have all services from hence. 
To Mr. Arent Eurley. 



LETTER LXXXY. SHAETESBURY to EURLEY. 

mr. furley, St. Giles's, July 23, 1705. 

I received both yours with the signal good news of our 

forcing the lines, which will be followed, I hope, by a good 



1705] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 165 

harvest of conquest on that side. We expect every moment 
news of our fleet, from whence good news will be of double 
satisfaction to us in particular, because of our friends con- 
cerned. 

I am glad Mr. Arent took well what I wrote to him at 
Portsmouth. If he escapes these temptations I doubt not but 
Providence will be favorable in all else, and you will see him re- 
turned safe to you, after an honorable expedition and an honor- 
able part in it; for penmen and swordsmen run equal hazards, 
as I take it, in sea-expeditions; though there may be much of 
this land-service only, especially if it be Cadiz, as it is reported 
and believed. 

But my bad eyes, the only slow part of my recovery, will 
not suffer me to enlarge upon any thing. 

I had already congratulated, and do again with great hear- 
tiness congratulate our friend Mr. Vrooson's advancement, 
and the honorable manner of it. I beg my remembrances and 
congratulations to the whole family. 

You and yours have all kind remembrances from us here. 
Mr. Micklethwait talks of going to the Bath for his leg. 

He writes to you himself in a post or two. I believe by 
the time this reaches you, Mr. Crelle, the young man whom 
your son Arent made me acquainted with, and whom I have 
since taken care of, will either be with you at Rotterdam, or 
have writ to you about his coming over to England, for his 
year is near up which I destined for his studies at Leyden, and 
I would now have him come over to see me, that I may judge 



166 LETTERS OE LOCKE, t [A.D. 

of his progress and give hirn further instructions, as also the 
helps of our Universities, where he may also learn our language, 
and make further progresses ere he comes into my family to 
live with me and be serviceable to me in the way of letters and 
writing, now that my eyes are like to prove weak for the rest 
of my life. He has several books for me which I would willing- 
ly should be sent over to me beforehand, that he may be dis- 
charged of the trouble of bringing them, since it will be a hard 
shift enough for him to bring himself, being such a stranger, 
and without knowing any thing of the language. I must get you 
to think of the best convenience for him, either by some friend 
going over in the packet, or by some master of a ship with a 
good convoy, remembering also a Spanish or French pass for 
him, he being a Polander and neuter, so easy to be obtained. I 
desire you to give him some letters of recommendation as tak- 
ing no notice that he has or hopes for any friend besides in 
England. With all kind wishes to you and yours, 

to Me. Eurley. I end as ever, &c. 



LETTER LXXXYI. SHAETESBURY to EURLEY. 

MR. FURLEY, CHELSEA, SEPT. 4tH, 1705. 

I have been come hither this fortnight from St. Giles's, 
to which place the enclosed was sent to me, so that I received 
it only time enough to send by this day's post. "We are in 
great pain to hear of the expedition : and, as many friends as I 



1705] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUBY, &c. 167 

have in it, your son Arentfs interest adds considerably to my 
concern; for, if success attends this great and decisive affair, he 
will have the snddenest and most advantageous coming into 
the world that ever any young man had. 

We are in great jealousies of a peace carrying on: and that 
the ambitious designs of some great men push them to raise 
disturbance between England and Holland on any pretence, 
the better to color the ill terms they have made for us. 

'Tis really the business of some people at Court to raise 
all the ill apprehensions they can of the alliance, and to mag- 
nify the advantages of Trance; when at the same time I am 
satisfied we are offered any terms from Erauce which is much 
lower than we imagine. But Courtiers have their mysteries, 
and this is now a very great one, that our Court should be wil- 
ling affairs abroad should look ill. But curse be on those who 
now do all they can to blow the coals between England and 
Holland, and make this misunderstanding to be a ground of 
giving such terms to Erance as may keep Europe still in ter- 
rors, and England under the pretended necessity of a stan- 
ding force! God give us eyes to see through those mysteries 
of iniquities ! 

My affectionate remembrance as I entreat you to my good 
friends: my health, I bless God, is much restored but not my 
eyes. Mr. Crelle is with me; and with the rest of mine sends 
all respects to yours, as does with true affection 

Your faithful friend. 



168 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 



LETTER LXXXVII. SHAETESBURY toEURLEY. 

MR. FURLEY, CHELSEA, SEPT. 11 til, 1705. 

The enclosed is for Mr. Le Clerc (which I beg you to 
direct and forward), and with my bad eyes I have but little 
strength left. I received your notice of the bill for Mr. Wright 
and I paid it him the next day. 

I rather congratulate than condole your poor sister-in- 
law's release from her miserable state of life. I hope you will 
bring your wishes to effect, and that we shall have the happi- 
ness of seeing you here now the great obstacle is remo- 
ved. 

I writ to you. a few posts since, and our prospect from 
Spain is still better and better. But God keep us from a trea- 
cherous peace, to which end 1 fear all this dust is raised, and 
these mutual complaints between the nations. 

If we get over this conjunction I hope the war will go on 
with fresh vigor and when I think to what danger those Min- 
isters expose themselves here who shall venture upon a peace at 
this time, I am apt to hope that these measures will be broken, 
and that setting ourselves heartily to the establishing Charles 
the Third, we shall soon distress Erance to that degree, that it 
will hardly be in the power of treacherous ministers to make 
a bad peace. 



1705] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 169 

My friends, who I thank God are all well, (with Mr. Crelle 
who is now in my family,) give kind remembrances to yon, as 
does yours affectionately, kc. 

I beg my humble services in particular to all my friends 
who enquire of me. 

LETTER LXXXYIII. SHAFTESBURY to EURLEY. 

MR. AKENT, St. GlLEs's, DEC 5, 1705. 

Your former and latter advices, first of the successful 
attack, and next of the surrender of Barcelona, with the whole 
progress of your councils (which Heaven has blessed so happily 
for England and Europe) were of all news I ever received the 
most welcome. 

To hear that you were safe and well, together with this public 
success, was cause enough of joy to me. But what I have heard 
of you by others, is over and above, for to hear as I do of your 
excellent behaviour, diligence, industry, and success in business, 
is a pleasure that none besides your good father can perhaps so 
sensibly be moved with as I am, since it has been uo small con- 
cern to me from your childhood to bring you to act such a con- 
siderable part in the world as I always thought your genius cap- 
able of. And now I see my hopes and endeavours answered. 
Mr. Stanhope and others give you a deserving character, and 
the business you have upon you shews what you are capable of. 

And now, Mr. Arent, let me intreat you, as you are more 
and more a man, to take me more and more as a friend; and, 



170 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

though I may appear still like a master or pedagogue to you, 
by admonishing you as I shall often do perhaps, yet consider I 
am not one of the severe sort. 

If I talk of virtue to you, 'tis not the virtue priests talk of. 
Pleasures that' are taken moderately and with injury to no man, 
are often better essayed by youth than wholly abstained from, 
for experience in such cases is to a good genius many times the 
best help virtue can have, and pleasure thus used becomes less 
considerable, and less an obstacle in the way of a good and gene- 
rous mind that has liberty, society, and mankind in view,andthat 
loves an honest fame and the love of friends and country beyond 
the obscure and mean pleasure of a night's debauch, in which 
every dull sot and insignificant drone is as considerable and as 
happy as the man of best sense, ability, or courage. 

However it be, I am satisfied you were none of those who 
gave occasion to the "Viceroy to throw that odious reproach up- 
on our nation, "that he was besieged by 7000 drunkards;" and 
I rejoice to hear the newspapers compare the continence of 
some of our Generals to that we have so often read together of 
Scipio Africanus. But if that other reproach were just, and I 
hope it was not, I must be forced to suspend my belief as to 
the truth of this latter encomium; for, as you have often read 
at school, 

Quid non ebrietas designat? 
I could believe the latter vice without the former, but not 
the former without the latter. 

But I must not pretend to engage in a letter: for what I 



1705] SIDNEY, SIIAETESBUBY, &c, 171 

write is but a scrawl, a line or two in such sorry manner as my 
eyes will bear, for though I gradually recover from my long 
fever, which yet returns now and then upon me, my eyes are 
still exceedingly weak. But, as loug as I have any, I shall al- 
ways be provoked to use them whilst I hear well of you; nor 
can I forbear praising you, exhorting you, and putting you in 
mind of what we have studied together, those noble examples 
of virtue and love of our country, vhich were treasured up by 
you against this season, and now to be practised and brought 
in use. And since I have played the pedant already in this I 
have writ, I will end the same, and brag of myself as well as of 
you in the words of one of our auticnts, for I may say as well 
as he, "Cresco et exulto, et discusse aegritudine viresco, quo- 
ties ex his quse agis et scribis, intelligo quantum teipse super- 
grederis. Si agricolam arbor ad fructum producta delectat; si 
pastor ex fsetu gregis sui capit voluptatem; quid evenire credis 
his qui ingenia educaverunt, et quae tenera formaverunt, adulta 
subito vident? Assero te mihi, meum opus es. Ego quum vi- 
dissem indolem tuam, injeci manum, exhortatus sum. Addidi 
stimulos; nee lente ire passus sum, sed subinde incitavi, et 
nunc idem facio, sed jam currentem hortor," &c. 

This is all I have to give you in return, for I am now re- 
tired into the country after the first week or two of Parliament, 
which was as much as I could bear, therefore for news I refer 
you to Mr. Micklethwait, who is in town, but will, together 
with Sir John and other friends, be with me during the ad- 
journment of Parliament,and for a few days more, at Christmas. 



172 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

They and all our common friends are well, and rejoice to 
hear so well of you. Mr. Coste is well settled in Mr. Clark's 
family, and your good friend Mr. Crelle is gone to Cambridge 
for his further improvement. He answers your kindness and 
my hopes of him, and grows every day in learning and know- 
ledge, as you on your side in experience and business, nor 
less, I promise myself, in worth, honesty, and love of your 
friends and country, to the joy of your faithful friend, &c, 
Adieu. 

W hen you are so kind as to write to me, direct always to 
Chelsea, for if I am here, the letters come as soon. 

TO MR. ARENT PURLEY. 



LETTER LXXXIX. SHAETESBURY to EURLEY. 

MR. EURLEY, HAMPSTEAD, 11th OF OCT. 1706. 

I have been lately so ill of my asthma,by attempting to go 
to town and see some friends, that I have been forced tore- 
move yet further off than Chelsea, which I am unable to bear 
at this time of the year when the great smoke of London be- 
gins, and the winds, as at this present, sit easterly. 

This morning therefore I came away from thence, and am 
now at a further distance north of London, being soon about to 
leave the neighbourhood of the town wholly, and go to my 
home in the West for the whole winter. But happily, last 
night, my Lord Sunderland came to me to Chelsea, where I 
had much discourse with him about the affair you have lately 



1706] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 173 

writ me at large. He is extremely well disposed, as all our 
Whigs are, and our Ministry, which is in a manner whol- 
ly of that sort, and sincere well-wishers to the common cause 
and interest. The difficulties you know already: 'tis even uncer- 
tain yet whether the Whigs and Court joining together have 
interest enough to carry their main point in Parialmeut;viz.the 
Union with Scotland (without which we shall be in great con- 
fusion because of the Succession) ; much more is it uncertain 
whether they can recover such a past game as to alter the funds 
established by taking off duties, in a case where the other party 
will stickle to the utmost, with that very intent to embroil us 
with Holland, and so put a base and unhappy end to a glo- 
rious and successful war. I might well ask you, as I did, con- 
cerning my last great letter written in the begining of the year 
to some friends of ours from whom I have not since heard, but 
intreat you to take no notice of it. 

My Lord Sunderland has been since in Holland and else- 
where abroad. He is a discerning man,and easily discovered the 
weak part of our friends of the honest Commonwealth party. The 
sores and wounds I used to feel with you on this occasion,when 
all ill news was magnified and all good decried, all on the side 
of Erance extolled and all on our side diminished, as a prepara- 
tion for peace, the much desired and wished for peace on any 
terms jthese sores,I say, of mine which I used to feel with such 
sad smart in Holland, bled now afresh with the lively and 
too true relation of my Lord Sunderland, and his description 
of the chief of those who pass for the Commonwealth party in 



174 LETTEES OE LOCKE, [AD. 

Holland. " What (says he) can be more ridiculous than for 
such as those to pretend a jealousy of our Court, as if they were 
concerning themselves, or would be any way instrumental in 
setting up a Stakeholder or any other power in Holland? what 
interest or what inclination can be alleged? or what facts produ- 
ced? But should the same spirit grow every day more and more 
inHollanc!,sothatit should come in a manner to be distinguish- 
ed by one party's being plainly for a peace, the other for a war, 
would not this be the way to make us desperate, and join with 
any, nay even the worst of parties, that should be for the con- 
tinuance of the war against those that were plainly working 
for peace and negotiating with Erance?" 

Eor my own part I had nothing to answer to this but to sof- 
ten and palliate as much as I was able. "Tis miserable to think 
that after so much blood and treasure,and so glorious and spee- 
dy an issue of the war as we may justly expect, that just at 
that instant we should start difficulties, and give our enemies 
the fruits of our laurels. 

I am sorry I can write no more on this subject, but act I 
always shall to my utmost; nor do I repine at the ungrateful- 
ness of my task, which is always to oppose and displease my 
best friends. Eor, as in Holland I was always thwarting our 
jealous, backward, and faint-hearted friends by assuring them 
all that was possible of good success from the right and honest 
measures of our Government and court (which every day grows 
better), so here I am acting the part of an advocate, and sup- 
porting, all that I can, the jealous fears and scruples of those 



1706] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUBY, fee. 175 

friends of ours, and, that they may appear hearty in the war 
and free from any engagements with France, I make even my 
own zeal questioned, at least my judgment in a great degree. 
But Icare not whom I disoblige,nor what reputation or interest 
1 lose in the world, if I can but in the least be the means of 
cherishing or preserving a good correspondence between the 
two nations and the lovers of liberty in both; for which cause 
I should joyfully sacrifice a thousand lives if I had them. At 
present I beg you would excuse the disorder uf this, for I write 
under the very pangs of my unfortunate distemper, and am 
panting for breath, which I shall not be able to take in any 
degree of ease till I am further removed from this town. So 
with dues to all friends, chiefly to your good family, I remain 
your faithful friend, Shaftesbury. 

TO MR. FURLEY. 

LETTEE XC. SHAETESBUBY to EUBLEY. 

MR. FURLEY, St. GlLEs's, DECEMBER 2d, 1706. 

I am again returned hither into my distant west country ;being 
unable to bear the town (as I was in hopes) till the opening of 
the Sessions of Parliament, which is now put off so long, and 
little business like to be done till after Christmas. 

I tried all that i could, by changing places, to keep in the 
neighbourhood of London j but 1 only got a severe fit or two 
of my asthma for my pains, and was forced to come away ill, 
but am now recovering again. I am glad, however, that I 
stayed solonjz as to receive yours with our friend Mr. Boyd's, 



176 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

and to communicate contents, as I did with good effect to 
some of the best of our great men. 

I beg my thanks and hearty services to Mons. Boyd, whom 
I will not yet trouble with a letter, since he has forgot I be- 
lieve most of his English, and I much unused of late to Erench. 
But when I have matter arising (as I shall soon have in all 
likelihood) from his ingenious and honest thoughts communi- 
cated to my friends, he shall be sure to hear from me in such 
language as I can. 

Our affairs in Scotland look very black. I believe the 
Union will go; but in such a manner as the nation I fear will 
severely feel: The best we can hope for is perpetual embroil 
and distractions in our Parliament, and all other civil affairs, 
which in one age (I dare boldly prophesy) will not be 
appeased or brought into any tolerable posture, unless by a 
remedy more fatal than the disease, — I mean a war and con- 
quest, for if it come to conquest there, it may soon prove 
conquest here. 

God grant in the mean while that our common war may, 
for the sake of mankind and safety of Europe, be carried on 
and pushed vigourously notwithstanding this bmderance; as I 
hope it will on our side, for hardly will our Court think of a 
dishonourable peace whilst they have such an affair on their 
hands; and, having so fierce an enemy as Scotland exasperated, 
they will endeavour the more to oblige, and strengthen them- 
selves by Holland. Indeed it is but a sad prospect for either 
nniion to think of the fair prospect Erance has of getting such 



170 G] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &o. 177 

a part of Britain under the title of a new king, which, if the 
Queen's death at this instant should fatally happen, I scarce see 
how it would be prevented, and what a blow this would be to 
the Protestant Religion, as well as the general interest of Europe, 
is easy to conceive. Nothing in truth but this happy alliance 
and the strong friendship between us and the Dutch can save 
this blow. Without it the Protestant succession and Hanover 
title even to either nation will be of little worth. 

But T end with all remembrances to yours, and am as ever 
yours. 

I should have told you Mr. Wright is paid, as I doubt not 
but you know already. 

I cannot as yet understand a tittle of that affair of H. 
Wilkinson's, and the letters and correspondences hinted. I 
am wholly a stranger to all ; and if said to be otherwise it is im- 
posture and juggle. I hope he is not so false as to pretend he or 
any other has made me acquainted with what I know nothing 
of. He is indeed but too vain, and talkative, and pragmati- 
cal; tho' with abilities and talents sufficient, if he would well 
employ them. I have been at great trouble, and know not how 
to dispose of him, having been foully disappointed by some who 
kept off other advantages by false expectations for him. I 
have now left him to the wide world with a small sum and 
clothes fitted out to take his fortune. 



178 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 



LETTEE XCI. SHAETESBUEY to B. EUELEY. 

mr. benjohan, St. Giles's, Maech 8, 1707-8. 

Being so true a sharer as I am and always shall be in what- 
ever be called a concern of your family, I cannot but take my 
part of satisfaction hi what you have acquainted me relating to 
the prospect of an union between two families I have so great 
an esteem for. 

You have done me justice in making me your confident in 
your addresses to so excellent a young woman as surely she must 
be who has such excellent parents; and I wish I had interest to 
second your pretensions; I am sure my recommendations 
should not be wanting. Having ever observed you so indust- 
rious and virtuous a young man, I had no fears for you but 
of a wrong choice hereafter in these matters, and I spared not 
to express those fears to you, when last at St. Giles's, because, as 
I then told you, I looked upon this danger to be the greater 
for youug men that were virtuous and sober, who, allowing 
themselves no other liberties with the sex, and being innocent 
as to the practices of the undeserving part, were more liable to 
be imposed on, and to fix their affections in such a manner as 
interest and advice of friends could hardly overcome. But you 
have now so happily directed your choice that your affections 
cannot be too fixed; and you have nothing,I hope, to overcome 
but the ordinary difficulties of courtship, in which 1 wish you 
all imaginable success and happiness attending it. 



17081 SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 179 

If upon this occasion my humble service to Mr. and Mrs. 
Wright be seasonable, I beg you would present them for me 
with great heartiness, as I send them. All good wishes and kind 
remembrances to Mr. Arent, and to your father and brother 
when you write. I am both in Mr. Arent' s and your father's 
debt as to writing. I hope soon to repay your father, though 
he intends so soon for England, but will dispense with Mr. 
Arent, or rather, I should say, give him quarter, since in this 
busy time of action and great affairs a country-correspondent 
can be but very dull to one in town. I add only, that I with 
great confidence and sincerity, good Mr. Benjoban, your truly 
loving friend and humble servant. 

Shaftesbury. 
Eor Mr. Benjohan Parley, at Mr. Wright's in Cannon 
Street, Merchant, in London. 



LETTER XCH. SHAFTESBURY to EURLEY. 

St. Giles's, March 26, 1708. 
I have been this long time answering your long and kind let- 
ter, but, whilst our affairs stood in such suspence that a moment 
one would have thought should have decided 'em, I held my 
hand. But still they are in suspence as they were, and now, Mr. 
Arent coming over to you, will save me the trouble and danger 
of opening our scene of affairs to you. Meanwhile, though I 
have been resty in this part of writing to you, I have not been 
so in my endeavours, with ail my interest and (hat of my Mends 



180 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

to serve you and your family; as the affair of both your sous 
may perhaps witness for me. As to Mr. Arent I will only add 
that I think him the most fortunate young man I have ever 
known; for, as to his happiness in being with Lord Peterbo- 
rough, I am contented the world should be judge as to the 
merits of his Lord, and the wonderful capacity and ability of 
such a leader and master, but for Mr. Stanhope * I can super- 
add, what is far above all other virtues, which yet are equal in 
him to any of his age; that he is an honest man, whose integri- 
ty, probity, and strict morals, give him the just esteem of the 
truly greatest man and lover of his country that has had the 
honor to serve it of late years. He is free of all passion or 
bias, all partiality or resentment. 

Erom him you may be satisfied in all, and his words, or si- 
lence at least, if you question him on certain subjects, will sa- 
tisfy you more fully of what I vainly endeavour, at this dk 
tance, by letter. I am sure I have no partiality for those who 
are called our ministry, but must do 'em justice, and I am 
sorry to say that, though they have great facility to have done 
much amiss in many things, they deserve far better of their 
country and Holland, and particularly of their sovereign, than 
as they are at present rated by some, both here in England 
and with you. But enough : I mourn the loss of our great 

* Brigadier- General James Stanhope, afterwards the first 
Earl Stanhope, a character eminent first as a warrior, and sub- 
sequently as a statesman and Prime Minister. 



1708] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 181 

friend Mynheer "Wellant. God grant there may be a succeed- 
ing race of public spirits in your part of the world. Faction 
and party affection eat us up and undo us here. None are so 
good as to suffer this country to be served by those who are 

disagreeable to them in a private respect. Their own merit is 
the only object they set before 'em. But tho' they have me- 
rit and that too very great, 'tis such a one as bids fair, under 
their management, to destroy their country and mankind. Two 
great men and friends of yours and mine are of this number. I 
speak not this to justify that envy of merit which shews itself 
too plainly in their rivals. But the world is not to be ruined 
that their merit may be shewn in all its lustre. I naturally 
perhaps hate some persons who stand in this light, and have in 
proportion as great or greater disobligations to them than they 
have. But I sacrifice all resentment and disgust on this oc- 
casion, and should think myself unpardonable if I did not. But 
I must end, being as ever, yours. 

TO ME. FUELEY. 

LETTER XCJIL SHAFTESBUBY to FUELEY. 

ME. FUELEY, CHELSEA, NOV. 3, 1708. 

I have not this many a day received a greater satisfaction 
than the reading your letter, and the account it brought me of 
your health and welfare: It would be strange indeed if so 
good and deserving a man as yourself met not with the utmost 
gratitude and kindness from relations; and yet as the world 
goes, 'tis next to a miracle to see a true and hearty affection 



182 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [AD. 

paid by children to parents, and chiefly to see a young" daugh- 
ter-in-law act such a part, but one might expect; .this from 
so good a family and education as hers. 

Were I capable of envying (especially in a friend's case), hoi 
much could I envy the happiness of your son, who could gaii 
a wife so educated, and under such good parents? How littl 
of this kind is to be found in our nobility or gentry? nay evei 
among our citizens, who I think truly, are for the most par 
more sumptuous, proud, luxurious, and corrupt than either 
So that I fear it will be my fortune never to be a father oi 
continue my family, since my only brother (who might vitl 
better success, perhaps, try his fortune this way in a lower 
rank of gentry) refuses to think of marriage, and leaves * the 

"* Lord Shaftesbury married, a few months after the date of 
this letter, Jane, daughter of Thomas Ewer, of Lea in Hertford- 
shire, Esq; by whom he left an only infant son, at his death 
in 1712-13. The Countess long survived, until 1751. His 
brother Maurice, who seems to have retained his ancestral name 
of Ashley, and is~therefore erroneously called Cooper in p. 117). 
also afterwards married Catherine, daughter of William Popple 
Esq. but had no issue. Mr. Ashley made a translation of Xeu- 
ophon's Cyropoedia, which passed through two or three editions, 
and was much praised by his nephew Harris, the author of 
Hermes. There are two portraits of the Hon. Maurice Ashley 
at the family seat, both painted in 1702, one in a full shooting 
suit, with a gun in his hand, and boots, but a flowing wig on 
his head; and the other in a blue gown, with his brother the 
Earl. 



1708] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 183 

heavy part upon me ; which I only call heavy on account 
that there are so few of my own degree or of those circumstan- 
ces that can justify my marriage, who have any sort of educa- 
tion that promises good. Thns you see in return to your 
kind and friendly imparting of your private affairs, which Pro- 
vidence has made so happy, I write with freedom of my own 
which, whatever they are, or are like to be, I thank God I can 
be satisfied with; and, tho' I long enjoyed one of the most firm 
and steadiest healths, and am now so far from it, especially 
when in or near the town of London, I am notwithstanding as 
happy as ever in myself, and can enjoy equally the prosperity 
of my country and friends, tho' excluded the same advantage 
of serving 'em, which I did heartily whilst I was able. 
This comfort and this inward satisfaction and content is 
the reward of such as, out of love to virtue and goodness, do 
all the good they can, and spend their lives in this chiefly. Eor 
whether reward come as in your case Providence has ordered 
it, whether the blessings of children, and those excellent ones, 
with other acquisitions of new friends and relations, even in an 
old age, or whether it be the contrary, as in the case of ill 
health even in youth, and other misfortunes which might cause 
others to repine, it will not be so with the man who never fol- 
lowed, virtue for a bribe, either in this world or the next; but 
who would do the same again and again, though under a thou- 
sand misfortunes, and with no prospect further than the satis- 
faction of friendship in itself, and befriending mankind as much 
as possible. So that upon the whole, though my case and 



184 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

yours are far different, I am not a less happy man nor less fit- 
ted to receive the joy and congratulations in the outward hap- 
piness and prosperity of such a friend as you are. And I re- 
joice too for the sake of mankind that there is in being the ex- 
ample of so good a parent, so well rewarded in children. 

I am somewhat concerned for what you write of Mr. A- 
rent, because I heard he was grown so lean. But if he have 
rest (as he has had perhaps,being left at Barcelona,) the hot cli- 
mate may do better for him than any place. I write no news 
from hence, our expectations being all from your side. Mr. 
Micklethwayt has been this month or two in the North,but is 
returning. I am, as ever, 

Eaith fully yours, 

Shaftesbury. 
My kind love and services to all yours. 



LETTER XCIV. SHAETESBURY to EURLEY. 
mr. furle v , St. Giles's, Jan, 15, 1708. 

I was extremely satisfied with yours, which has given me 
an account of your health and the care of it, which is now 
become so necessary. The satisfaction you feel in looking 
back on your past life, and viewing how Providence has 
blessed you to see your greatest dangers over, your children 
virtuously bred up, and in a prosperous way of business in the 
world, this, and what I hope I may add too, notwithstanding 
our late pullbacks,thc good prospect of the nge and the security 



1708] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUEY, &c. 185 

of the Protestant Keligion and liberties of mankind on a happy 
foundation of good correspondence between the two nations of 
Britain and Holland, the conductors of this great work, all this, 
I say, is a just subject for you to rejoice with yourself as cons- 
cious of the good share you have had in the promoting this 
public happiness, and how God has blessed your honest endea- 
vours in respect of your relations and friends: but I hope still 
that this consummation, which I own would be a most happy 
one, were it to be final even now, will not however be a hindr- 
ance to you, or a slackening of your endeavours to preserve your- 
self as long as possible for the same country and friends' sake 
whom you have hitherto so worthily and successfully served. 
You are the more encouraged to this by that vigour of mind 
and spirits which God has bestowed on you in an extraordinary 
manner: so that your years, though they may bring more pains 
and difficulties on your body, have no influence on your mind 
and better parts, which are likely to be preserved so for many 
years, if you do but support the outside frame: and even that 
too is so excellent in its kind, that with watchfulness and 
diligent application it may be long preserved. If such an one as 
you should neglect to bestow some pains in this respect, con- 
sider what it must be to one yet under forty (as I am by a year or 
two) who yet am forced to treat myself with more pains than 
you have need to do. My love of life was never very 
great; even when I had vigorous health and was the 
I most active in business, I never thought it a matter of dif- 
ficult resignation. But with the pains and distempers I have of 
late years contracted/tis well I have a thought of duty to over-bal- 



186 LETTEES OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

ance all discontent : otherwise I might soon fall into a certain 
negligence of my health, which in my state would soon make 
my dismission, and send me out of the world: but whilst I can 
have any share (be it ever so little) in the service of my friends, 
my country, or mankind, I can be contented with any life, any 
health, or any constitution ever so bad, and can live as happily 
thus as at any time of my life: rejoiciug that my days of youth 
are well over, and that I have passed those temptations of a 
more florid age, which might have thrown me far out of the 
road of virtue, and deprived me of those sentiments by which 
alone I can enjoy my friends or self. In the mean time it has 
pleased God, as remote as I have thought myself from business 
and a capacity of serving either my friends or country, to throw 
many opportunities across me,and to make even this scene of my 
life no narrow one in affairs of a public nature. All this last sum- 
mer I had health enough to be about the town, and give some 
assistance to our best Mends of greatest interest, and now in 
the winters that I am unable to approach London, I am em- 
ployed in settling interests for the public in a part of Britain 
where the most elections lie, and in a county where I have 

the chief influence. 

After several years of the Queen's reign that I was ill treat- 
ed and look'd upon with the utmost enmity by the Ministry, I 
am at last much better thought on : and they are nigh convinc- 
ed that I have been no small friend to them, and unalterable 
by ill usage. Eor knowing, as I have done all along, that the 
Ministry, from the very first year of the Queen's reign; were at 



1708] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, fee. 187 

the bottom true to the interest of the common cause, and that of 
the mutual good correspondence between the two nations, I 
passed by all other regards, and applied myself to give them 
credit and honor both here and abroad with you in Holland 
where I came so soon after the King's death. This you may 
well remember, by my conflicts with many of our mistaken 
Whigs, and those who out of a false zeal arraigned both Lord 
Marlborough and Lord Godolphin in the highest manner. 
And by the way I would beg you to call to mind one interview 
which I had with Mynheer Yan Wallant (at his own desire), 
where he himself first privately, and then others of note and 
interest publicly, sought to me to be well instructed of the 
real disposition and temper of our Ministry in those early days. 
They were persons who had long known me, and (by your 
means and other friends whom I had lived so long with and 
known so intimately in Holland during the King's life) had re- 
ceived such ail impression of me, and conceived such favoura- 
ble thoughts as were above what I deserved. At this time I 
took the utmost pains (as you must well remember) to wash 
away all ill impressions of the Ministry, and assure Mynheer 
Wallant and the rest of the fidelity of our Ministry to the 
common cause, and their particular regard to the States, end 
the maintaining a good correspondence. 'Twas then I ventu- 
red to give such a character of Lord Marlborough in particular 
as was wondered at by many, and often reproached to me till the 
battle of Blenheim, when I left you and came over for England. 
You may remember too, even as early as the first post 



188 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

after the King's death, what letters of assurance I wrote, which 
were thought fit to be translated and published to confirm 
people's minds abroad. 

You may wonder, perhaps, what all this means: that I should 
be thus enumerating my own merits, and looking back so far 
for my own commendations, but thus the case is : I have just 
lately experienced some particular favors, and have received 
marks of such regards from our Ministry (I mean in particular 
our two great Lords) from whence I may be able, by improve- 
ment of my interest, to do some public service, that I am ex- 
tremely willing to shew I do not ill deserve their compliments. 
I am seldom behind hand in good turns with any body. But 
here I may truly say I have been before hand; and I should be 
highly pleased to shew them so much, though, as matters stood 
before, when I was ill used, I had too much stomach, as they 
say, to let it be known how much I was in their interest; and 
by some silly mistakes of pamphlets written, and spiteful 
things dispersed, I was really taken by them for an antagonist 
instead of a champion and stickler for them, as I had been 
abroad and at home. 

I know not what acquaintance Mynheer Wallant has kept 
with our great Duke, but if they stand tolerably well together, 
and are upon conversing terms, I should be mighty glad if, 
when he comes over, a word or two could be dropt in discourse 
concerning me, and that Mynheer Van Wallant would only say 
as by chance, what idea I very early gave him of our Queen 
and Ministry, and in particular of Lord Marlborough, both as 



1708] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUBT, &c. 189 

to his minister and soldier capacity. The States are now, and 
have been long since, convinced of the sincere services he has 
done, and is ready to do them, and if nothing else had been 
able to convince them, the transactions in the House of Lords 
now lately might suffice; for the Ministry, and particularly that 
noble Duke, has been severely questioned by the malignant 
party, and inveighed against for being too much Dutchmen. 
Thank Heaven that our Ministry cannot by their worst enemies 
be reproached for being Erenchmen; and for that other re- 
proach, I hope they will ever hold it honourable. I am sure it 
is one of the main reasons that makes me so much their friend. 

T am sorry for the quarrel our friend Lord P. is engaged 
in with the Ministry;"* but not so much with the Ministry (for 
they are rather neuters), as with our old Whigs ; he being 
more in the party of a certain Gent, a friend of ours,t who in 
a manner stands single, being broken from his old party, and 
equally hated by both. 

'Tis the sad fate of human affairs that such divisions should 
happen. By this means not only the actions of many great 



* The Earl of Peterborough's conduct underwent the strict- 
est inquiry in Parliament; but at length, Jan. 12, 1710-11, the 
House of Peers voted, te That during the time he had the com- 
mand of the army in Spain he performed many great and emin- 
ent services; for which he had the thanks of that House ;" and 
the Lord Chancellor expressed himself in the warmest terms on 
the occasion. See Collinses Peerage. t Mr. Harley. 






190 LETTEES OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

men are unrewarded, and meet sometimes an undeserved and 
contrary return, but a whole nation too much suffer, and a good 
cause be deprived of able and successful hands to serve it. This 
may perhaps be our case, and we are not likely to see your 

friend Lord P employed again, as I could heartily wish. 

The branch is very great between him and all our other friends, 

Lord S df in particular, who in the affair of the Admiralty 

has carried himself extremely well,and shewn that no relation or 
private influence could bias him. I doubt not but Mr. Arent will 
carry himself with prudence in these difficulties, and understand 
how to be faithful and just to his master, without engaging in 
an invidious manner beyond his province. I should have had 
his company here this Christmas, but for the new attack that 
is made against his Lord, and I should then have given him 
my best advice, though, by what I hear, he acts so well that 
there is no occasion. 

Our friend Mr. Micklethwayt is just now with me, and 
gives kind remembrances to you and yours, * tis time to end 
with my own, which you can never doubt of as being unaltera- 
bly yours, 

Shaftesbury. 

I believe Lord P 's enemies*will gain little honor by 

their attack upon him,but rather add to his. I am sorry some 
of our friends should engage so warmly against him, and that 

t Charles Earl of Sunderland had become Secretary of State 
Dec. 3, 1706, and remained in that -office until June 1710. 



1708] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBUBY, &c. 191 

by this opposition he meets with he should be forced to join 
himself with certain great men of the old Tory race of Charles 
and James's ministry, who are not only the greatest enemies of 
our cause, but who in particular have the greatest hatred to 
him, and have formerly done him the highest injuries, as they 
will surely do again when once they have no further occasion 
of his interest, parts, and merits, to play against the Court, 
with winch they are so much at variance, for no good reason 
you may be sure. 

As for what I have writ concerning Mynheer Wallant, the 
affair,as you see,requires no haste,for the Duke is not like to come 
over very soon, but, if you find any easy opportunity, I would 
not, however, that you should neglect to use the first. It may 
be a means for me to do many good services; for oft times the 
greatest friendships are made from reconciled differences, espe- 
cially where the differences have not been real, but through 
misunderstanding only. I wish, if I have any interest, or come 
to have any with our Ministry, that I may have opportunities of 
representing matters aright, to prevent mischiefs that may arise 
from our ill understanding of the true interests of Holland, and 
from an ignorance of the right men, and honest cause there. 
I should be glad on this account hereafter to renew again my 
correspondence with some of our friends on your side; if any of 
them (viz. Mynheer Paats, or Yan Twedde, or Elink,) enquire 
of me, be so kind as to acquit me with due respects, &c. 

Pray be so kind as to continue your account of the troubles 
in Guelderland, which, if ended, I hope are not altogether to 



192 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

the ruin or overthrow of the Commonwealth party. 



LETTER XCY. SHAFTESBURY to EURLEY. 

MR. FURLEY, J AN. 13, 1708-9. 

I had just left Chelsea, and was come to Sir John Cropley's 
in Surrey, * where I now am, intending to proceed on my jour- 
ney to St. Giles's, when T received your first letter concerning 
the poor oppressed gentleman at Amsterdam. I thought to 
have writ fully and at leisure concerning that affair, as soon 
as I reached my journey's end; but 1 was detained here, as I 
still am, by the v^ry severe weather, which, if in proportion 
with you in Holland, I can't but be concerned for your health, 
for I have much ado to resist it myself, even by keeping myself 
within doors and as warm as possible. Meanwhile I received 
your second letter of despair in respect of the poor gentleman* 
and indeed it would be but little service that I could hope to 
do him by writing in his behalf to persons with whom I have 
no correspondence of long time, and such too as I would not 
trouble with any private concern, having reserved the little in- 
terest I have for the public, and to do, upon occasion, some 
good office between the two nations for the common interest 

* The family seat of Sir John Cropley was at Brandon, in 
Durham. Sir John accompanied the Earl in his travels, 1686, 
and was M. P. for Shaftesbury (sec p. 119). There is a whole- 
length portrait of him, in a long gown, at Wimbourn St. Giles, 
and the present Earl is named Cropley after him. 



1708] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 193 

of liberty and mankind. 

I know too well that there are sore places in most of the 
particular Governments of your Provinces as well as towns. I 
am one who, out of love to common weal and the interest and 
reputation of free Government (besides my particular affection 
for that mother nation of liberty), would do all I could to hide 
and conceal these blemishes, and cover the nakedness of our dear 
parents. And indeed what do these blemishes amount to? No 
more than the bare frailty of human nature; for, though hum- 
anity is indeed improved and raised by free Government, yet 
man will still be man; and his infirmities will appear. Even 
a whole people, when truly free, and truly and faithfully repre- 
sented ? will oft times do injustices, and whether by their deputies 
as in Holland, or collectively in a body by themselves (as of old 
in Athens and other democracies,) their passions and infirmi- 
ties will appear, and shew them to be mere men. How much 
moie must this break out when the people are not perfectly re- 
presented; but thro" the ease and security of the Government, a 
few or a select number have the administration of affairs! These 
men, if in the main they administer well for the public, will be 
permitted to rule, and being supported by their merit with their 
countrymen in general, they will easily, where they are provo- 
ked, revenge themselves tyrannically on a particular person 
now and then, aud by their credit suppress the noise that may 
be made about it. But alas! what is this in comparison to what 
is endured in mere monarchies ? how much easier is it for a 
Prince who has gained a great reputation, to suppress a single 



1#4 LETTERS Of LOCKE, [A.B. 

man? when the perpetual danger of such Governments is, that 
no sooner has a Prince done great things for his country, but 
he has the sovereign power in a manner devolved upon him,and 
by the foolish zeal of the people is made absolute, almost whe- 
ther he will or no. For, to go no higher than our own times, 
what think you had become of our English Constitution, had 
King Charles the Second not been a prodigal, King James a 
bigot,or had King William not been victorious, and gained those 
advantages, which, by the blessing of Heaven, have been ob- 
tained by the common force and united virtue of the two na- 
tions led by a private man, and under the good influences of a 
mild, virtuous, and pious Queen? This I have ventured to hint 
to you, to stop a little that good zeal and generous indignation, 
which on the account of this private injustice you expressed a 
little too feelingly: besides that indeed in the very case of this 
unhappy gentleman (as set forth by himself,) there appears a 
most unhappy conduct,and a plainly mutinous,seditious,and un- 
just manner of supporting a just cause; for a rude and riotous 
appeal to the people is, of all injuries, the greatest that can 
be offered to a free Government, and is most destructive to po- 
pular Government itself. 

But no more now, but my best wishes to you and all yours. 
I am, as ever, faithfully yours. 

Shaftesbury. 



1709] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 195 



LETTER XCVI. SHAFTESBURY to EUELEY. 

mil furley, Chelsea, May 28th, 1709. 

Though 1 delayed my answer to your former letter (having 
had a long fit of my asthma, which kept me a mouth from 
this place), I would not wait a post, but dispatch instantly 
what you desired of me as to my Lord Townsend,^ and have 
therefore enclosed a letter to him, which I here send to you to 
deliver as you see occasion, for I had no other occasion of 
writing to him but as you desired on your own account. 

I hope you will excuse my saying more as yet, till I am a 
little more recovered; for I am not fit to apply to any thing 
as yet. 

All our eyes are on your affairs at the Hague, and we ex- 
pect to hear no more of camps, so I hope you will inform us of 
what success we are like to have in a way of treaty. For my 
part (as you and my other friends well know) 1 never fear- 
ed nor had the least apprehension in the war. But now for 
the first time I begin to know what fear is, and tremble at 
a peace. I laughed at the French swords when opposed to ours; 
but I dread the force of corruption, and those other weapons, 
whieh they can better manage and we less ably resist. God 
send us firmness and courage in this sense, and that no weak 



* Lord Townshend had been sent to the Hague as Pleni- 
potentiary to treat for peace with France. 



106 LETTERS OF LOCKE, [A.I). 

places be found in the breasts of those that act for either na- 
tion ! 

The excessive weakness of Prance would have forced her 
to comply with any thing we could have asked. But the false 
politics of some well-meaning and worthy men in joining with 
those who still lessened her wounds and magnified her vigour 
and remaining power, will be a snare to us in the treaty. For 
this will infallibly be the occasion of making an indifferent 
peace pass for a most advantageous and triumphant one. 
Whereas, the naval power of France subsisting, and the means 
of it remaining still in their northern settlements in America 
of Canada and Quebec, &c. their trade also being likely (by 
our folly and the general madness of Europe in running after 
their fashions and manners,) to rise again in a few years, we 
may yet in our time see the beginning of a more dangerous 
struggle for the liberties of Europe and mankind. 

But I can add no more at present but that I am as ever, 

Affectionately yours. 

All kind wishes and congratulations to your son and 
daughter and all yours. 

LETTER XCVIL SHAFTESBURY to EURLEY. 

MR. EURLEY, ReYGATE, May 22ND, 1710. 

After the receipt of yours by Harry Wilkinson, I resolved 
to enquire for a safe hand to carry you an answer from me, 
that I might be as free as pen and ink will safely allow. And 



1710] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBUBT, &c. 197 

now I have an occasion offered me by the passage of a good 
lad j, who goes over to settle her son at some school where he 
may be best taught the languages and rudiments of trade ; for, 
though, as the eldest child, he will be intitled to a moderate 
estate, yet it being not such as to maintain him properly in 
the rank of gentry, she prudently resolves to bring him up to 
business, that if he gains little by it, he may at least learn in- 
dustry, avoid idleness, acquire a good habit of frugality, and 
learn to improve what he has of his own. She is a worthy good 
lady, and intimate with my best friends, with whom she has 
lived long in strict friendship, I know you will gladly assist 
her with your advice, which is all she desires, knowing your 
character so well, and trusting to your judgment. 

'Tis well that Mrs. Mellish (the lady I recommend to you) 
had no other affairs of a troublesome nature; for, whatever re- 
spect I have for her, I should refuse to engage you in any con- 
cern which might occasion you that fatigue and trouble which 
you are too apt to give yourself beyond what your strength can 
bear in a friend's case, or any of a compassionate kind. As 
much compassion as there was in your Amsterdam acquain- 
tance's, I cannot without regret consider what harm you have 
done yourself this last winter at your age and in your circum- 
stances of health; I am sorry you set no greater a price upon 
yourself. Your life surely is too well valued by your good re- 
lations and dear friends of long standing to suffer you, with- 
out injustice doue them, to throw away your health at that 
rate. And, as for what public service may appear in such a 



193 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

case, surely the balan.ee lies much stronger another way, and 
you might justly reserve yourself for better occasions of service 
to your own native country %, and the interest of that in which 
you livef: for, allowing that gentleman's cause was ever so 
just, yet I am sure, by the papers of his own, which you trans- 
mitted me, he prosecuted it in a most unjust, insolent, and, 
forgive me the word, traitorous manner, Eor to me the great- 
est traitor in the world ever was and will be that man, who, 
under pretence of love to the people, or their interest, will raise 
them to sedition, appeal to their tumults and gathered num- 
bers, and attempt to work upon their passions, and incense 
them to be the executioners of their magistrates. Such was 
the spirit that destroyed the generous pair of patriots in 72, on 
your side; and such is the disposition of those pretended loyal 
men on our side, who but a month ago were raising sedition 
and appealing to the people, whom in their heart they abhor. 
But, thanks be to God, the sound part of our people were far 
from being moved; they bore the insolence of the conspirators, 
and suffered many days the insults of a lewd rabble, of which 
not one is like to be punished by the Government*. They 



{England. t Holland. 

* This alludes to the turmoils relative to Dr. Sacheverell. 
The rioters were tried three days after the date of this letter; 
but having pleaded guilty their punishment was very slight. 
Four were fined twenty nobles each, and eleven fifteen nobles. 
Complete History of Europe for 1710. 



1710] SIDNEY, SHAtTESBUM, kc. 199 

could easily have righted themselves and defended the 
house and persons of their friends: but so noble a testimony 
have those called Whigs given of their regard to magistracy, 
that when unprotected and exposed they would do nothing even 
in their own defence, when, with a word given, they could have 
suppressed and knocked in head a treble number of such ras- 
cally villains as were got together and raised in rebellion by the 
professors and preachers of submission and loyalty. But such 
respect ought ever to be borne by all good people towards every 
Government that stands upon the foundation of laws, and has 
any thing that may be called a constitution; — that, however 
unjustly things may for a while, or on some particular occasion 
be administered, they will bear with patience those infirmities 
and occasional corruptions and mismanagements which are in- 
cident to all Governments, and are natural to men as men, ra- 
ther than by a sudden zeal or animosity in their own or friends' 
case (when unhappily injured or ill dealt with) attempt to un- 
hinge the Government itself, and stir up the minds of the 
people against their magistracy and settled form, which fails 
not to end in cruelty and tyranny. For so the best Common- 
wealths have been converted into the most absolute tyrannies. 
And thus, as a friend to the people, I ever was and must be the 
greatest enemy to those who, on any account less than imme- 
diate impending ruin of their State, shall dare appeal to their 
tumults,* and invite them by their riotous assemblies to intimi- 
date their Magistrates. 

If I have been too worm against sedition in what I have 



200 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.B. 

writ to you on the case of the poor abused and much injured 
gentleman, for so I truly believe him, notwithstanding what I 
lay to his charge in another respect, you must remember that 
it is not only my country's case at present which warms me, 
but a friend's. 'Tis yourself I am concerned for, and grieved 
to hear how you have exposed yourself for this gentleman's 
sake. I hope what you have remaining of health and strength, 
you will manage better for the future. 

As for my own state of health, 'tis so very indifferent, 
and I have again passed another so sad a winter, that I speak 
feelingly. What I have remaining of life I will employ the 
best I can, but the less I have, the better I ought to manage 
it. And this I think my duty as it is yours. 

Our good cause is far from sinking, whatever appearance 
these tumults may have. The admirable patience and modera- 
tion of the Whigs makes their principles better known as the 
conduct of the other party exposes theirs. You may rest satis- 
fied in this I here write you; that though the several parties of 
Tories and other false brethren of the Whigs are more united 
and in concert than ever, so that by means of some unfortunate 
disturbances at Court their party seems prodigiously formida- 
ble, yet they never were in a better way of ruining themselves 
and their cause, nor was the principle of liberty and hatred of 
slavery and priestcraft ever higher in its ascendant. The Pre- 
tender's party may flatter him to some desperate attempt; but 
the issue is like to be far worse for him than ever; and may 
only make us see hereditary right mount the scaffold, and the 



1710] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 201 

ax employed as the law directs, which has long since set that 
pretence of right aside, and given us our good Queen over the 
head of that pretended heir, and the House of Hanover over 
the other pretenders of Savoy, &c. on the same hereditary foun- 
dation. 

My kind and affect, remembrances to all yours. 
I am your sincere and faithful friend, 

Shaftesbury. 



LETTER XCVIII. SHAFTESBURY to FURLEY. 

MR. FURLEY, REIGATE, JULY 17. 

It is with great concern I hear from you of your relapse 
into your ague or intermitting fever; and I am still more con- 
cerned to hear your physicians are either wholly against your 
taking the bark, or, what is worse, give it you in trifling quan- 
tities. The time you have delayed too is enough to prove fatal if 
your fits have been many and severe. However,to communicate 
what I can to you with the utmost expedition, (for 'twas but 
this moment I received your request, and am sending this away 
as soon as possible,) my first warning to you is to get instantly 
three or four ounces of the best bark, and get it to be finely 
powdered, for if the difference be so great in coffee, which is 
drunk for pleasure, what must it be between pure bark freshly 
beat into powder, and that which has lain stale in shops, 



202 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

perhaps in paper merely, for days or weeks, if not months to- 
gether ? 

This is the first care ; next, as your disposition is, if requir- 
ing cordials, to take it in strong white wine, mountain-wine, 
or what best suits your stomach, otherwise in cool milk-water, 
or plainly made up_into a bolus by some few drops of any in- 
nocent syrup. If you are costive, it may be in the syrup of 
violets or syrup of red poppies, especially if you cough, this 
latter being one of the best remedies of that kind. But the 
greater fear in taking the bark is the contrary, viz. a looseness, 
in which it never did nor ever will do good. So that if you 
are the least inclined this way, and go to stool too often, you 
must take the bark in half a spoonful of syrup of white poppies 
(called diacodium) and so mixt up as you like it with any 
comfortable warm still \ waters, or restringent strong red wine. 
In this case syrup of quinces, conserve of red roses, and con- 
fectio alcermis will be of use. All must be used to stop such a 
habit of body, else the bark will be in vain, as it will certainly 
be, if the doses are not full and frequent, that is to say, a dram 
each time till you come to an ounce or ounce and an half: begin- 
ing the moment your fit is off, and repeating it every third or 
fourth hour, being waked in the night on purpose, however 
sweetly you may sleep, and contriving, as well as you can, that 
your eating and drinking may be just betwen the four hours, 
that you may take your bark two hours after and about as 
much before any nourishment. The last dose you take going 



1710] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUBT, &c. 203 

to your first sleep at night should be the furthest off from your 
supper, because of taking the syrup of white poppies, which is 
best on an empty stomach, and whether you are too open or 
not, I would have you the first night take your bark in syrup 
of that kind going to sleep. But if you are really loose, or 
find the bark makes you so, you must put a large spoonful to 
your bark, and join at other times all the comfortable or spicy 
things you can to stop your laxity. If you can take an ounce, 
beginning from the ending of the fit, and so in repeated drams 
till the time you expect the return, you may best stop and ease 
yourself whilst the time of your next fit is, though the fit 
come not : and then begiu again at the time the fit would have 
ended if it had come. If it please God you miss your fit, you 
may ease yourself by taking the drams slower, or diminishing 
them to half drams at a time (taking the whole one at night), 
and so till you have taken the full ounce and an half. 

If after this it return, I would not have you discouraged 
from taking the bark anew; if the force of the distemper be 
once broke by the bark, you may master it if you please, for 
though it return again and again, if weaker every time than 
other, you are sure to conquer it, if you will follow your blow. 
But people are faint-hearted, desist, and so are conquered by 
the disease. If you purge, as doctors are too ready to prescribe, 
you destroy all. A month after will be time to do it, and then 
mighty gently, and at night the bark again with a large spoon- 
ful of syrup of white poppies, and another dram of the bark 



204 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

the moment yon awake in the morning, and so till you have 
taken half an onnee more. 

This is your friend Dr. Locke's and all our ingenious and 
able doctors' method. This has saved my life, and but for the 
bark I could not now live. I am satisfied that of all medicines 
that physicians ever prescribed, if it be good of the kind and 
properly given, His the most innocent, and leaves the least 
harm behind it, whatever bugbear the world makes of it, and 
especially the tribe of inferior physicians, from whom it cuts 
off so much business in a distemper which they make the 
chiefest gain from. In great haste to dispatch this to you, 
kindest remembrances to all yours, I remain, as ever, yours, 

Shaftesbury. 

I sent you a long letter by Wilkinson, about public 
affairs, which continue in the same posture and uncertainty of 
the Parliament's dissolution, which all good men fear, all ill 
hope, but we gain time however. 



*I have no means of ascertaining whether Dr. Locke was 
related to John Locke the philosopher. 



1712] SIDNEY, SHAETESBUEY, &c. 205 



LETTER XCIX. SHAETESBUEY to EUELEY. 

MR. FURLEY, NAPLES, 22 MARCH, 1712. 

'Tis a sensible grief to me that I must at one and the 
same time condole with you on two such melancholy subjects as 
that of the death of your son,"* and that of the life and triumph 
of the common enemy, his cause, aud party in our native 
country. In the latter of those you know my concern is equal 
to your own; and in the former, not far behind. Besides my 
natural friendship for one who was your son, he was in particu- 
lar, as you well know, my pupil and eleve, in whose education 
and advancement 1 took so great a part, that I may justly 
sympathize even in a fatherly affliction for his loss, and next 
to a real par nt or a brother,he could have none a truer mourn- 
er, or vii h more reason than myself. 

I am sorry withal to hear the repeated account of your severe 
cough ; as I have sometimes been successful in prescribing 
remedies to you, and have learnt much in this kind by my own 
infirmities,let me desire you to try a spoonfull of good syrop of 
white poppies, or what the apothecaries call diacodium, just 
on your going to bed. It must be when your stomach is 
empty long after supper, that you must take it. If you are 
apt to be loose it will be of double advantage : if bound, it will 
not do so well : it should not be often repeated. If it be any 



* Mr. Arent Early. 



m LETTEES OE LOCKE. [A.D. 

way inconvenient you will soon find it. There can be no dan- 
ger in the trial. 

If your ague or intermitting fever should return, pray 
spare not to take the bark, as I formerly with good success 
and particular care directed you in my letters. 

My own health has been exceedingly depressed this 
winter ; of which this latter part has been the coldest known of 
a long time in this climate. My little conversation, in my 
chamber, whence I have not been able as yet to stir, is with 
some few men of art and science, the virtuosi of this place, as 
in particular the family ant friends of the famous Don Joseph 
Yaletta, of whom the Bp. of Salisbury* speaks so honorably 
in his Travels. Medals, and pictures, and antiquities, are chief 
entertainments with us here. And on these subjects I shall 
have papers now and then to enclose to you to forward: I wish 
our Ministers in England may not take them for politics. 
They would be much deceived if they should break open my 
letters in that expectation. Whatever my studies and amuse- 
ments are, I endeavour still to turn them towards the interests 
of virtue and liberty in general. As for particular engagements 
in the public or my country's cause, I am precluded. But 
whilst I have the least breath or life, nothing can preclude my 
endeavours to express to my friends, and yourself most particu- 
larly, how much I am, as of old, with constancy and sinceri- 
ty, &c. 

t Burnet; his Travels were published in 1687. 



17121 SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. £§7 

My kind remembrances to your^sons and family, and to 
such friends as happen to remember me. Adieu. 



LETTER C. SHAFTESBURY to EURLEY. 

ME. EURLEY, NAPLES, 19 JULY, 1712. 

Though I am as little fit as of long time to write to you 
with my own hand, I am forced to do it, (both Mr. Crelle 
and my other head-servant being sick,) to condole for the most 
sad shame and reproach of our nation, which I never thought 
to have lived to see, and which makes my sad health and little 
prospect of recovery the less grievous to me, as a means to 
end that sense of shame, which I shall ever retain for my 
country, even though it should recover itself from these calam- 
ities, such as it is like to bring on the rest of the world as well 
as on itself. You have known my heart many years, and that 
hitherto on all occasions I gave comfort, and was ever on the 
promising side ; till the fatal villainy of the seditious priest 
Sacheveril, and the fall of the old Ministers, and Whigs, 
never was I dejected till this turn. And now bear me 
witness,in my last retreat into Holland, how hard a part I had 
upon me to justify and support the conduct of our two great 
Ministers, though my enemies, and at variance and defiance 
with us poor Whigs, whom they called in to save them 
when it was too late. But 'tis not this I complain of : 'tis of 
the incredulity or rather injurious suspicions and surmizes 



208 LETTERS OE LOCKE, [A.D. 

which borne of cur gocd friends in Holland always entertained 
of our Ministry even when they did best, and when by re- 
peated letters from England I engaged bcdy for body in their 
behalf. This made me weary of a correspondence I otherwise 
should have cherished to the last. Yon nay lenenber in 
your cwn house with what difficulty and opposition I satisfied 
Mynheer Welant (since dead) of the righ! views, intention, 
and capacity of a Lord Marlborow and Godolphin. This was 
before the first campaign was over, and at a time when I myself 
as well as my party ai_d all poor ^/Yhigs, were the most hardly 
used by those two Lords, who now can only keep their heads 
up by our endeavours and support. Thus the world runs. But 
Providence is in all : and every honest man carries his own re- 
ward within his breast; I have mine, I bless God, in a good 
conscience of having done my best, and even brought myself 
to this weak state of health by my cares and labours for the 
good interest and cause of liberty and mankind. 

Farewell. 

I pray God preserve you and family, and the few good in 
this dishonest generation. Your old acquaintance and mine, 
the lord who negotiates in these parts as Ambassador, had 
better turn General and fight again, this being the fitter part 
for him. He and the younger lord you name to me have ac- 
ted alike honestly, and with the same regard to their old friends 
and principles. Pray beware how you trust. Adieu. 

Your two last received are of the 21st and 24th. I hope 
vou received a thick paoquet I sent you last post. 



1715] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 209 



LETTER CI. CEELL to FURLEY. 

SIR, NAPLES, 21 FEB. 1713. 

Yours of the 27 of Jan. found my Lady Shaftesbury in 
the g eatest affliction, as you can easily imagine, after the 
loss of my Lord, who died the 15th of this month, at 10 o' clock 
in the morning. His Lordship was in so perfect resignation to 
the»will of God, that he did not only bear his pains and agonies 
with patience, but also with perfect chearfulness, and the same 
sweetness of temper he always enjoyed in the most perfect health. 
And though he was so mighty wrak that "'tis but seldom his 
Lordship could speak, yet whenever he was able, we, who had 
the honour to be about his person, had the pleasure as well as 
improvement of hearing his wise pious discourses and admoni- 
tions, which I hope will have the effect on us as I am sure my 
lord designed them for, in making us better every day he liv- 
ed, in order to resign so good a master without repining at the 
will of Providence. 

I would enlarge upon this subject,but his Lordship's dis- 
tinguished character and merit is so very well known in Holland, 
as well as in other Courts of Europe, that the Viceroy said, 
when I notified to- him this sad news, that he would serve the 
Countess o- Shaftesbusy, rot only as being Count Borromee of 
Milan, but as Viceroy of Naples, in behalf of his Imperial Ma- 
jesty, whose august family owed so much to this great 



S10 LETTERS OF LOCKE, [AD. 

genius, who influenced our Parliaments &c. His lord- 
ship's body is embalmed and ready to go by sea in a very little 
while ; which done, my Lady, according to my Lord's last de- 
sires,sets out for Eome,iu order to reach England, family, and 
friends the soonest possible. I don't know yet which route to 
take, expecting Mr. Molesworth's, the Envoy's at Florence, 
advice ; but I fancy we shall go through France, as being the 
most expeditious way. You will be so kind as to send our 
letters back again into England, or whatever else might come 
to your hands for us after the receipt of this. Mr. Wheelock, 
jun. had orders to adjust the accounts with you after his 
arrival at Rotterdam. My Lord had the satisfaction to receive 
your obliging letters till the very last. All his friends can do, 
is to lament their loss, among whom none are more sincerely 
concerned than, Sir, 

Your most obedient humble servant, 

Crell. 
P. S. My Lady received yours of the 24th, which came 
later than it ought to be. 



LETTER CII. E. EORSTER io HIS BROTHERS. 

DEAR BROTHERS, LONDON THE 9 FEB. 1749-50. 

I have been extremely glad to hear you had gone 
through your measles well,and hope your health is by this time 



1750] SIDNEY, SHAFTESBURY, &c. 211 

perfectly established ; your mama is thank God purely recovered. 
We yesterday had in London a violent shock that was sen- 
sible in every part of the town from Wapping to St. James's : 
I heard likewise it was perceived at Wandsworth : should be 
glad to know if any body at Hertford heard anything like it. I 
myself was in a Hackney coach at the time (half an hour after 
12 o'clock) it is said to have happened, so perceived it not, till 
we heard of some magazine or powder milFs having exploded. 
People will think it an earthquake : if it were perceived with 
you, I believe it must be so, tho' I am told it was attended with 
a great noise, which I believe an earthquake seldom is. 

Herewith I have sent you The Students, the new play, I 
hear we are soon to have another at Drury lane called the Ro- 
man Fatter : I suppose either Brutus or Yirginius, that is T 
think the name of Virginia's Father) is to be your hero. 

Our compliments wait on Mr. Worsley and family. I am, 
&e. E. F. 

LETTER I* SIDNEY to EURLEY. 
[omitted at page 4.] 
dear friend, London, Jan. the 3d, [1677-8] 

About the 25th of the last month I sent you three bills of ex- 
change, for the sum of £100 sterling, and this day I send you 
the duplicates of them, and having therein mentioned the reas- 
ons that had principally persuaded me to take the course that 
for the present I do iutend, I hope they came safe into your 
hands, and have at this present no more to do than to send 
you the duplicates, of them, nor to say but that I am truly, 
Your very affec. friend, Al : Sydney. 



INDEX. 



Air, History of the, 57, 80, 155 

Anjou, Philip Duke of, his succession to 
the Spanish throne ; see Spain. 

Anne, Princess, and afterwards Queen 70 
147 194 201.262 

Arbuthnot, Dr. John 80 

Ashley, Hon. Maurice 117 119 121 147 ; no- 
tice of 182 

Barcelona, surrender of 169 170 184. 

Bark, on the use of 201 206. 

Bayle, Mr. 148. 

Belevel, Richerius de 156. 

Bellamont, Lord 57. 

Bernard, M. his " Nouvelles de la Repub- 
lique des Lettres" 68. 

Bishops, Bill for preventing their transla- 
tion 90. 

Blanchardus 31, 41, 

Bonvill, 48 

Borromee Count 209 

Boyd, Mr, . 154 175 176 229 , 

Boyle's History of the Air 57, 80 155 

'Eroen, John de 48 

Burnet Bp. his Travels 206 

Charles, the Second, his speech to the Par- 
liament in 1677-8, 5 mentioned 13, 14 98 

Church Communion, 113 

Churchill, Aunsham, the bookseller 55 57 
79 155 71 81. 

Clark, Mr. 172 

Clarke, Edward, Esq. letters of Locke to 
47 55-62 65-6 mentioned lxxvii 31 53 

Mrs. 66 

Clipping of money, Locke's remarks on 48 
61 62 

Cock, sagacity of a lxxv 

Coleman, Marc 39 

Colhans 21 24 45 

Comets, i.lxxv 

Cony, Nathaniel 7 

Coomans 42 

Cooper, Hon. Maurice ; see Ashley. 

Coste, Mr. 161 164 

Crell, Mr. 205, 165 167 169 219, 172 207 let- 
ter of 209 

Crellis, Mr. 81 

Cropley, Sir John 119 122 164, 171 192 

Cudworth, Mrs. 55 

Danby, Tho. Earl of his, arrest in 1678-9,11 

Dancing, Locke's opinion of 59 

Daranda, Mr. 93 

D'avaux, Mr. 130 

Death of friends, remarks on by Locke 50-1 

Denoun, Mr. 54 

De Witt, John his death 123 

Diabetes, Locke enquires regarding 80 

Dog, anecdote of Mr. Furly's lxxvi. 

Dorsetshire, Lord Shaftesbury's electioneer- 
ing exertions in, 81 119 186. 



Election of 1700-1, 81 84; in 1701, 118; in 
1702, 131.inl708, 186 

El will, Mr. John 31 

Essex, Arthur Capel first Earl of 12 

Eugene, Prince, 105 111 

Evans, Sir Stephen, 49 

Ewer, Thomas, 182 (note) 

Excise officers excluded 6 from Parliamt. 75 

Flink, Mr. 97 100 106 111, 115 19i 

Foley s, the 133 

Foot, Mr. 12 

Formin, 57 

Forster family, ix lxxx. 

France, the least free nation 158; fears of 
its possessing Spain ; see Spain. 

Freedom, eulogized by Lord Shaftesbury 
158 

Freke, J., 53 57 60 

Furley, Arent, Letters of the Earl of Shaf- 
tesbury to, 157, 161, 169, 179; his Lord- 
ships, instructions to 170; notices of lxxx 
157; mentioned, 21, 25,52, 98, 104, 108, 
109, 113, 120, 139, 142, 165, 167, 184, 190; 
his death, 205. 

Benjamin, notices of, and his library 

lxxix. letters of Mr. Locke to 16 to 53 ; 
of Algernon Sydney 3 to 46 ; of the Earl 
of Shaftesbury 54, 69, 74, 78 81, 85, 90 
to 104, 105, to 133, 138, 146 to 155, 159 
to 162, 164 to 177. 179 to 208 —of Mr. 
Crell 209 ; mentioned 57 72 104. 

Benjohan, letters of Ld. Shaftesbury 

t o, on his marriage 178 ; mentioned cxix 
lxxx , 105 130 138 143 148 153 

Furly Dorothy lxxx. 

John lxxx. 

Mrs. (first wife of Benjamin) death 



of 49 



161 



Mrs. (second wife) 72 89 106 130 



Fustenburg, Count Prosper of, 149 

Gimars*37 

Gloucester, Wm. Duke of. his death 70 

Godolphin, Sidney Earl of 76 187 208 

Gospels, alterations in the 41 

Graevius and Gronovius 92 115 

Groningen Catalogue 37 39 

Guenellon, Dr. Peter 22 25 

Guineas, high rate of 61, 

Gwinn, Sir Rowland, 160 

Halifax, Charles Montagu, Lord, 93 

Hanover title 177 ; see Succession 

Harley, Robert (afterwards Earl of Oxford) 

127 133 146 189 
Harrington, James, his works 71 
Hedges, Sir Charles, 124 
Heysius's Catalogue, 39 
Hodder, 31 
Hodges, Mr. 74 



INDEX. 



Hogeboom, a writing master, 40 

Holland, its fears at the growth of France 
99 102, and throughout Lord Shaftesb. 
letters. 
Hollis, Lord 95 

Hooper, Lady Dorothy 89 143 

Howe, Jack 99 

Huntingdon, George eighth Earl of, his 
death 160 

Hysterman, Mr. 90 93 121 122 130, 147 

Inquisition, Hist, of the 56 

Italy, politics of 105 110 

Johannis, Petrus 25, 41 

Jura Populi Anglicani 125 

Ker57 

Kidder, Bp. Richard 56 

King, 48 

Lantern, people of the, 19, 22, 27, 36, 37. 

La Treille, Mr. 58 

Lauderdale, John Duke of 12 

Law, Lord Shaftesb. opinion of 146-7 161 

Le Clerc, Mr. 57 160 168 

Leech, Mr 69 

Leeds, Duke of ; see Danby 

Leers, Mr. 92 115 

Leicester, Robert 2d Earl of 3 ; his death 8, 

Limborch, Mr. 52, 56, 116, 149 

Locke, John, original MS. of his Essay 
on the Understanding ix ; epitome of 
his life xt to xvii remarks on his reli- 
gious opinions xvi — xxvi ; on metaphy- 
sical opinions from Plato to Locke xxi 
to Mr. Furey 16 to 53 ; to Mr. Clarke 47, 
55 to 62, 65,66, 71, 73; to Sir Hans 
Sloane 66, 78, 104, 155, taken for a Jesuit 
28 entployed on his Essay rie Imellectu 
35, 52 ; Latin translation 53, additions in 
1 699, 67 ; gives advice as a physician 41 ; 
his religious opinions 46 his salary under 
Government 40 ; his Thoughts on Educa- 
tion 55 ; on horseback every day 71 ; sore 
legs 73 ; proposals for the change of style 
66, 68 ; his register of the weather 80 155 ; 
mentioned 55, 98, 139 204, memoirs of 
written by Lord Shaftesb. 161 

Lockhart, Mrs. 52 

Macclesfield, Charles 2d Earl of 106, 113 

Mansfield, Count 149 

Mares, Flemish 12 13 

Marlborough, John Duke of, 187, 188, 189, 
191 208. 

Masham, Sir Francis 55 

Lady 50, 65, 141 

Mead, Will. 12 

Melfort, John Earl of, 87 

Melish, Mrs. 197 

Methuen, Mr. 150 

Micklethwayt, Mr. 122, 148, 155, 160, 161, 
164, 165, 171, 184. 

Molesworth, Mr. 210 

Molino ; see Quietism. 

Montpelier Garden 156 

Musgrave 99 

Navy, morals of the 162 

Newton, Sir Isaac 57 

Nimeguen 8 

Nouvelles de la Republique des Lettres 68 

Osgood, John 12 

Oxford, Aubrey 20th and last Vere Earl of, 
93 

: see Harley. 

Paats, Mynheer 90, 95, 106. 115, 128,130. 



191 

Paget, Henry (afterwards Earl of Uxbridge) 
100 

Paradoxes of State, 122, 147 

Parliament, reform in 75 ; the triennial law 
77 proceedings in, throughout Lord Shaf- 
tesb. letters. See also Elections. 

Parties, the art of governing by, 188 

Partition treaties, fatal 85 

Pawling, Mr. 56 

Pembroke, Philip 7th Earl of, his trial for 
murder in 1678, 7 

Pen, William 41, 6, 9, 12 

Peterborough, Charles 3d Earl of, K. G. 139, 
140, 142, 147, 180, 190, 

Petrus Johannis 25 41 

Philip V. his succession to Spain ; see Spain 

Philosophical Transactions, 67, 78, 80, 104 . 
156 

Popple, Mr, 50, 53, 57, 

William, 182 (note.) 

Portland, William 1st Earl of, 140 

Poulett, John, 4th Lord, 100 

Pretender, the, 200 

Quakers, sects of, 19 

Quietism, Pieces concernant le, 21,24,29, 
31, 38 

Roberts, Gerard 12 

Rochester Laurence 1st Hyde Earl of 76 

Rooke, sir George 121 

Rushout, Sir James, 58 

Sacheverell, Dr. 198, 297. 

Scotland, the purposed Union with 173 176 

Sectaries of Holland ; see throughout 
Loeke'sletters to Mr. Furly. 

Seymour, Sir Edward, his activity in poli- 
tics 99 110 119 

Shaftesbury, Anthony Ashley 3d Earl 
of, brief biographical notice of jlxxviii ; 
mentioned by Mr Locke 53 57 [not Ash- 
by] ; letters to Mr Furley, 54, 69, 74, 78, 
81, 85, 90 to 104, 105 to 132, 138, 146 to 
155, 157 to 162, 166 to 177, 179 to 208 ; to 
H. Wilkinson, 68, 72, 83, 88, 142, 143 ; to 
Mr. A. Furley 157, 162,169; Mr. Ben 
Furley 231. activity at elections 81, 119, 
131, thanked by the king 119 ; his retire- 
ment to Holland in 1703, 138, 15, wrote 
memoirs of Locke 161 ; his marriage 182 ; 
ill health 185, (et passim); joins the min- 
isterial party 187 ; death 209; his patron- 
age of young men, see Wilkinson, Crell, 
and Arent Furlev. 

Shaftesbury, Jane Countess of 182, 209, 

Shaftesbury, representation of that town in 
Parliament, 119 

Shoar, 99 

Sidney, Algernon, brief notices of lxxvii; 
his cup presented to Mr. Furly lxxviil his 
letters to Mr. Furly 3 to 15, 212, his re- 
turn to England in 1677, 3. VnVfciA 

Simon, P. 52, '53 

Sloane, Sir Hans, letters of Mr. Locke to, 
66, 78, 104, 155 

Somerset, Charles 6th Duke of, 147. 

Sommars, Mr. 125 

Sommers, John, Lord Chancellor, 57, 60, 76 

91, 93, 03 
Spain, death of Charles II King of 75 ; 
succession 86,94 96,, 98 108 114, 117, 128 
Stanhope, James 1st Earl 169, 108 
Stanley, Mr. 58. 



INDEX: 



Stockdale, Mr. 159 

Strong man exhibited in 1699, 67 

Style, Locke's proposal for the change of 
66, 68 

Succession to the throne of England, dis- 
cussion of 70, 88, 97, 102 -, the Union 
with Scotland intended to confirm 173 

Sunderland, Charles 3rd Earl of, 172, 173, 
190 

Swinton, John 6 

Thomas, Dr. 74 

Toland, Mr. 106 

Townshend, Charles 2d Vise. 195 

Treby, 57 

Trenchard, Mr. 119 

Uxbridge ; see Paget. 

Valetta, Don Joseph, 206 

Van Cunningham . 7 

Van Helmont Mr. 29, 41 

Van Tweede. Mr. 71, 78, 90, 93, 95, 97, 
100 101, 104, 106,120,128,130, 147, 191, 

Mr. jun. 97 104 

Werberg, Mr. 71 

Vossius, fate of his library 53 

Vrooson, Mr. 65 



Wallant, Mynheer 95, 181 "187, 188, 194, 
208 

Weather. Locke's register of the 80, 155. 

West Indies sovereignty of 86, 116. 

Wetstein 24. 28. 41. 

Wheelock. Mr. 210 

Wilkinson. Mr. Henry, his history 68; let- 
ters of Lord Shaftesbury to 68, 72, 83, 
88 142, 143 mentioned 69, 71, 104, 105, 
106, 122, 130, 139, 177 196, 204. charac- 
ter of 177. 

William the Third, king, mentioned 75, 
81, 82, 87, 91,93,94, 96, 102, 103, 105, 
110, 112. 118. 124. 126. 129. to 131. 

Wiltshire, Lord Shaftesbury's electioneer- 
ing activity in, 119 

Wratislaw, Count 150 

Wright. Mr. Joseph 52. 7. 104. 67. 147. 
108. 179 

Writing. Mr. Locke's remarks on 17. 26. 
procured copies for Mr. Furly's children 
2s. 40. 42 34 
Vonge. Sir Walter 53. 

Yorke. James Duke of 14 

Yvor. Father. 30 



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